Getting past landlord to verify

[Stacy Patlan]

I have a very odd situation. I have an applicant who has passed all other checks and balances. ONLY her landlord situation is a mess. I called the number she provided and asked for the landlord. I was told I have the wrong number. A few minutes later I get a call back from him saying he must have misunderstood me. (I smell a liar right off the back... are you really the landlord or faking for her). So I ask him to send me any type if verification that he owns the property, rent received, deed, insurances, taxes, ID anything because how do I really know the truth. The applicant has stated her landlord isn't the kindest person. He is heavily accented and doesn't seem to want to help me or his current tenant out. How would you go about this? Would you trust the tenant? Is she lying? How do I nicely get verification other than just verbally?  Thanks!