Buying and owning single-family rental properties can be both an exciting and rewarding investment, especially in a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood like Riverwest, Wisconsin. But unlike other investments, rental properties come with unique responsibilities — from understanding local tenant laws to mastering the art of screening renters.
If you’re a Riverwest property owner preparing to lease your first home, this guide will help you navigate the process confidently and legally. By following these key steps, you’ll set yourself up for success and help ensure a positive experience for both you and your tenants.
1. The Importance of a Strong Renter Screening Process
One of the most critical steps in leasing your Riverwest rental home is selecting the right tenant. A thorough tenant screening process helps you find reliable renters who will care for your property and pay rent on time.
Start by having all prospective renters complete an application that includes:
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Names and birthdates of all household members (including minors)
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At least five years of employment history
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Contact information for at least three past rental references
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Social Security numbers for all adult applicants (for background checks)
Be sure to verify all the information provided, especially with prior landlords, to get insights into the applicant’s rental history. While this process takes time, it will reduce the likelihood of unpleasant surprises down the road.
2. Avoiding Discrimination in Rental Practices
As you advertise and screen tenants, it’s essential to comply with federal, state, and local fair housing laws — and Riverwest has a socially conscious community that values inclusivity.
Federal laws you must follow include:
- Fair Housing Act (FHA): The Fair Housing Act (FHA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. The FHA regulates all elements of the rental process, including advertising, tenant selection, and terms and conditions of tenancy.
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Also covered by FHA is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Landlords who own multi-unit buildings of 4 units or more must offer reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, such as offering accessible parking spaces or putting grab bars in bathrooms.
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) is a federal law that restricts discrimination against individuals 40 years of age or older. Although the ADEA is generally created to protect employees, it also restricts discrimination in housing based on age.
- Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA): The Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) is a federal law prohibiting discrimination in credit transactions, including rental transactions. Under the ECOA, landlords may not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, age, or because they receive public assistance.
Additionally, Wisconsin’s Open Housing Law adds protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation, marital status, lawful income source (such as housing vouchers), and ancestry. Be especially mindful of local ordinances in Milwaukee, as the city enforces strict anti-discrimination policies.
When crafting rental ads, avoid language that could be considered discriminatory, such as “no kids,” “working professionals only,” or “no Section 8.” Base your tenant decisions solely on objective qualifications like income, rental history, and creditworthiness.
3. Understanding Reasonable Accommodations
In the same manner, it is necessary not to assume that someone with a disability is automatically an unsuitable candidate for your rental property. Under the Federal Fair Housing Act, Riverwest property managers are mandated to allow “reasonable accommodations” for their renters, should they be requested. By definition, a reasonable accommodation is “a change, exception, or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, or service that may be necessary for a person with a disability to have an equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling.” This might include:
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Allowing service or emotional support animals, even if you have a no-pet policy
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Permitting minor modifications, like installing grab bars in bathrooms or adding a wheelchair ramp (usually at the tenant’s expense)
Keep in mind: You cannot charge extra fees or deposits for service animals or deny an application solely because a reasonable accommodation is requested.
Why Consider a Professional Property Manager?
Managing a rental property in a dynamic neighborhood like Riverwest comes with unique challenges, from compliance with local regulations to handling tenant relations. A professional property management company can handle tenant screening, leasing, and maintenance — all while ensuring you stay compliant with federal, state, and city laws. At Real Property Management Dairyland, we deliver transparent and anti-discriminatory screening and leasing services to help our rental property owners find the ideal renters. Check out our Tenant Application Criteria, contact us online or at 414-400-0016.
Originally published on June 4, 2021
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
