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Like any housing decision, renting from private landlords presents both pros and cons. Lower rent, more flexible lease terms, and the opportunity for direct owner communication are just a few of the reasons many residents seek out this type of arrangement.
But with those benefits come a few risks.
Unlike professionally managed rentals, properties owned by private landlords, or individuals who own and manage their rental properties without the help of a professional property manager, don’t always come with the same checks and balances. That means it’s up to you, the resident, to take extra care when choosing your next home. While many private landlords are responsible, fair, and a pleasure to rent from, others may be inexperienced or even negligent in their responsibilities.
So, how can you tell the difference? Start by learning the red flags.
In this article, we’ll discuss what to watch out for — and some bonus tips on how to find private landlords you can trust.
Red Flag #1: Lack of a Written Lease Agreement
If a landlord says, “We don’t need paperwork,” it’s time to pump the brakes.
Verbal agreements might sound easy and flexible, but they’re incredibly risky. Private landlords who don't provide an official written lease agreement leave you with no formal documentation of your rights or responsibilities. And if a disagreement arises? You’ll have nothing to fall back on.
A lease agreement should clearly spell out important terms, including the monthly rent amount, due dates, applicable deposits and fees, the duration of your lease term, maintenance expectations, and more.
Key Takeaway: Never move in without a signed lease! If a private landlord doesn’t offer one, that’s a major warning sign that you should look elsewhere.
Red Flag #2: Unwillingness to Provide Repairs or Maintenance in Writing
Stuff breaks — it’s a fact of life. Things will malfunction and break while you live in any property, but how your landlord handles those repairs matters greatly.
A landlord who brushes off maintenance concerns or refuses to put repair responsibilities in writing may be avoiding accountability. This can result in unresolved issues that affect your comfort and safety.
A solid lease agreement should include a section on maintenance procedures, expected response times, and who’s responsible for what repairs. This ensures that when repairs or maintenance concerns arise, there is a clear process to follow and accountability for everyone involved.
Key Takeaway: Before signing an agreement, ask the private landlord how repairs should be requested and documented. A professional who cares about your well-being will have a clear process in place.
Red Flag #3: No Resident Screening Process
If a private landlord doesn’t perform any kind of screening — no application process, no background check, no references — that’s a red flag.
It might feel like a win to be able to skip the paperwork, but a lack of screening can indicate desperation or disorganization. Worse, it may signal a lack of concern about who lives on the property, potentially leading to issues with other residents or property upkeep. Imagine if you share a wall or even space with someone who has not been properly vetted. This kind of oversight can put your safety at risk and just isn’t worth it.
Our comprehensive resident screening process has been instrumental in our ability to place great residents in safe, cared-for properties. By going the extra mile with our screening, we ensure both owners and residents find the perfect match.
Key Takeaway: Ask any landlord about their screening process upfront. It can be a great way to gauge their professionalism and get a sense of how seriously they take the rental relationship.
Red Flag #4: Requests for Cash-Only Payments
If you’re asked to pay rent in cash only, especially without a receipt, proceed with caution.
Cash-only transactions can’t be traced and offer no proof of payment. That could put you in a tough spot if there’s ever a disagreement about whether rent was paid. Private landlords who insist on cash may be avoiding taxes, using poor bookkeeping practices, or simply operating without much professionalism.
One of the most common upsides to living in a property managed by a professional is the use of industry-standard software, including rent payment portals. These portals offer residents a way to pay their rent digitally via ACH or bank transfer and even allow for automatic payments in some cases. This also ensures that you have documentation of each payment and a heads-up if your payment fails for any reason, which means you avoid late fees and penalties.
Key Takeaway: Always ask for a digital payment option or at least a receipt of your payment. If a private landlord refuses, that’s a dealbreaker in our eyes.
Red Flag #5: Poor Communication or Unresponsiveness
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If a private landlord is slow to respond during the application process, that behavior likely won’t improve after move-in. The reality of managing a rental property can be overwhelming and if a landlord isn’t prepared for this level of responsibility and the communication skills it requires, you’ll be the one feeling the consequences.
Clear, responsive communication is key in any rental relationship. You need to know you can reach your landlord when you have questions, maintenance issues, and most importantly, in emergencies.
Key Takeaway: Test their response time by sending a few questions during your initial conversations. If it takes days to hear back, or you don’t hear back at all, that’s a red flag worth taking seriously.
Bonus Tips: How to Find Private Landlords You Can Trust
While it’s important to know the warning signs, it’s equally important to understand how to find private landlords who are trustworthy and professional.
Here’s exactly how to do it:
Research Online Reviews
Platforms like Zillow, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace may include landlord ratings or past resident experiences. Do some research to find out what previous residents have to say about this landlord’s level of care and attention.
Check Resident References
We think it’s smart to also ask for direct references from current or previous residents. Reputable private landlords should be happy to connect you with someone who’s rented from them before.
Confirm Their Identity
Check public property records to confirm property ownership and ensure you’re dealing directly with the legitimate landlord, not a scammer or unauthorized subletter.
Still wondering how to find private landlords you can count on? Word of mouth, local community forums, and trusted real estate agents can also be great resources. Some cities even have landlord registries where you can view licensing information and complaint history.
Final Thoughts: Know the Signs, Rent with Confidence
Private landlords can offer a flexible and rewarding rental experience, but only if you do your homework and rent from the right individual. Understanding the red flags to look out for can help you steer clear of uncomfortable, unsafe, or unstable situations.
By being proactive and asking the right questions, you can find a living situation that fits your needs and leads to a smooth rental journey.
Worried about these red flags? If you'd prefer peace of mind with a professionally managed property, check out our vetted rental listings in your area. The team at Evernest ensures every home meets high standards for maintenance, communication, and resident care, so you can focus on settling in, not stressing out.
Explore our available rentals today and find your next home with confidence!
