Details you need in case of eviction/collection/legal issues

[Angela Li]

HI BP,

I've been thinking about what to ask from tenants in case of issues...besides a copy of their gov't ID (Drivers or passport), credit report stating full name, address and birthday, what else do you all typically ask for?

I don't ask for SSN and also personally have never provided/been pressured to provide them myself when I used to rent, and honestly don't want to open up liability for having to keep someone's SSN either. I know the credit report will have it but planned on asking for it to be blocked out.

In cases of court evictions, collections or judgements, are copies of their gov't IDs, address, birthdays, enough?

Another question on the address...if they're just renters, what address would they typically have on their credit report? I know with mine, believe it would've shown different addresses over the years because I moved many times...the court will be able to find them even if they no longer live in a previous address?

I know these are very rudimentary questions.... so thanks in advance!! I'm in MA if that makes a difference.