Landlord red flags
A bad landlord can turn a great apartment into a nightmare. Watch for these warning signs before you commit.
They refuse to show the unit in person
If a landlord will not let you tour the actual unit — or insists on a video tour only with a deposit first — walk away. Scammers often copy real listings and ask for money before you ever see the property.
They pressure you to sign immediately
High-pressure tactics like “five other people are applying today” are designed to make you skip due diligence. A reasonable landlord gives you time to read the lease and ask questions.
They ask for cash or a deposit before a lease
Never pay a security deposit, first month’s rent, or application fee in cash, via wire transfer, or through apps like Zelle or Venmo to someone you have not met and whose identity you cannot verify. Get receipts and a signed lease before transferring money.
They will not put promises in writing
- Verbal promises about repairs, pets, or rent freezes
- A lease with blank spaces or vague language
- No documented move-in condition report
They are hard to reach before you even rent
If texts or emails go unanswered for days during the application process, expect the same once you are a tenant. Responsiveness now predicts responsiveness later.
Their history is full of complaints
Search the landlord or property management company online. Multiple unresolved complaints about maintenance, deposits, or tenant harassment are strong signals to keep looking.