Apartment Application: 10 Important Documents You’ll Need

Apartment Application Documents

Westbay Management Company is a leading provider of high-quality apartment rentals in the Lansing, MI, area. With a reputation for excellence and a focus on customer satisfaction, we confidently help students, professionals, and families find the perfect place to call home.

We have compiled this guide on the important documents you need when submitting your apartment rental application. Landlords and property managers use the documents you provide to verify your identity, assess your financial stability, and ensure you’re a responsible tenant. Having all the required documents with you when completing your apartment application form helps the process go smoother and demonstrates your reliability as a prospective tenant.

List of Documents Required

1. Pay Stubs

Pay stubs are among the first documents you must present. They prove your income amount and employment status, which helps landlords determine your ability to afford the rent. Typically, you’ll need to provide your two most recent pay stubs, although some landlords require more than this. Be aware that some landlords require rent to be 30 percent or less of your income.

2. Bank Statements

Bank statements provide an overview of your financial health beyond your pay stubs, demonstrating your ability to manage money responsibly. Landlords may request statements from the past two or three months to learn more about your spending habits and ability to pay rent if emergencies arise.

3. Proof of Identification

A valid ID is required for the apartment application process to confirm your identity and protect against fraud. Accepted forms of identification may include a driver’s license, state ID, passport, or green card. Be prepared to submit a photocopy or digital scan with your apartment application form.

4. Recommendations & References

Providing personal and professional recommendations helps strengthen your apartment rental application. These letters can be from current or former landlords, employers, or acquaintances who can vouch for your reliability and trustworthiness as a renter. Remember to contact these people in advance so you can have their letters in hand when applying for an apartment. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses so your prospective landlord can contact them with any questions.

5. Vehicle Registration and Proof of Car Insurance

If you plan to park a car at your new apartment, you must provide your vehicle registration and proof of insurance. This information tells the landlord you’re a responsible driver and helps prevent illegal vehicles from parking on the premises.

6. Social Security Number

Your Social Security number (SSN) is required during the apartment application process. Your SSN allows landlords to verify your identity, conduct a background check, and run a thorough credit reference check to ensure you have a history of paying bills on time and managing your finances responsibly. For security reasons, don’t carry your Social Security card with you. Instead, memorize the number so you can write it on your application.

7. Rental History

Your rental history demonstrates your track record as a responsible tenant. Include the addresses of your previous rentals, how much you paid in rent, the duration of your stay, why you left, and contact information for past landlords or property managers.

8. Job History

Your job history is another important aspect of your apartment application form. It demonstrates your employment stability and ability to maintain a steady income. Include the job title and your employer’s name and contact information for each position you’ve held. Keep in mind that landlords like it if you’ve stayed at the same job for years rather than jumping from one job to the next.

9. Pet Information

If you plan to bring a pet to your new apartment, be prepared to provide relevant information, such as the animal’s age, breed, size, and vaccination records. This information helps the landlord assess whether your pet is a good fit for the property. You may also owe a pet fee, deposit, or additional monthly rent to cover potential damages.

10. Checkbook

Finally, have your checkbook ready when submitting your apartment rental application. Most landlords charge a fee to process your application and run a background check. Many also collect a security deposit and pet fee upfront. Having your checkbook on hand ensures you can promptly submit any necessary payments and avoid delays.

Visit Us in Lansing to Find Your Dream Apartment

At Westbay Management Company, we understand that applying for an apartment can be overwhelming. That’s why we strive to make this process as simple and stress-free as possible. With our exceptional services, well-maintained properties, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we set ourselves apart from other property managers in Lansing, MI.

Now that you understand what important documents you need for your apartment application, you’re one step closer to securing your ideal rental. Contact us today at 517-323-9400 for pricing and availability of our beautiful apartments in Lansing.