Can I rent or lease an apartment during or after bankruptcy?

There are many reasons that cause people to have to file for bankruptcy.  On the other hand there are a number of reasons why people do not file bankruptcy.  However, the ability to rent or lease an apartment after filing bankruptcy should not be a reason to prevent you from filing.  It is true that finding property managers and/or owners that are willing to rent to you might be a little more difficult, however, it is not impossible.

Some factors that are considered when screening a potential tenant.

1)  Credit Score.  Of course property managers/owners will consider your credit score when determining whether or not to rent you the apartment.

2) Criminal Record.  Property managers want to make sure that you are not a criminal or that you have a domestic violence record.  They want to keep their community peaceful.

3)  Employment Verification.  If you are not employed, you can’t pay rent.

4) Utility payments and prior leasing records.  Property managers want to make sure that you pay your rent and utilities first.  So long as you have your financial priorities straight, property managers will be happy.

As you can see, your credit score is only one of many considerations that property managers and owners look at when you apply for a lease.  Even with a bankruptcy, so long as the property manager has assurances that you can pay the rent, they will lease you the apartment.

Negotiate your Lease

Remember, most things are negotiable.  Therefore, if you are finding it difficult to rent, you can offer the property manager additional assurances.  This includes a higher security deposit.  Or you can pay two or three months’ of rent in advance as opposed to just the first month’s rent.  You can also request to lease the property month to month.  This way, it is easier for the property manager to break the lease if you do not pay.  As you can see, you can find creative ways to provide assurances to the property manager/owner.

Of course, some landlords might have a strict policy of not renting to anyone who filed for bankruptcy, there are many more landlords that are willing to take the risk for a rent check.  Be sure to contact a bankruptcy contact a bankruptcy attorney to learn more about the pros and cons of bankruptcy.