Calling employers to verify employment

[Michael H.]

I have a quick question. When you are verifying employment by calling and verifying prospective tenants employment, do you ask to speak to someone in hr? Are you asking them how much they make? I am just wondering why they would give that information to me over the phone.

[Adam Juodis]

@Michael H. regarding the person you inquire the information about your tenant varies per the business size. Could be the owner, could be HR.

Questions I would ask are:

-Can you confirm that "Tenant's name" is making an income of 'X'? (Your prospective tenant should have informed you of their income)

-How long has "Tenants Name" been employed at your company.

-What does "Tenants Name" future job outlook look like? Is there a potential layoff foreseen in the future? Is his/her performance lackluster, and being fired is a possibility? Promotion opportunities?

The employer could just tell you no, and not give you any information if they wish not to, but your YMMV. If this happens, I would ask the potential tenant to sign a release form allowing you to obtain this info from their employer.