The best way to avoid the extra tenant syndrome is get better tenants. Better tenants do not need extra roommates; they have enough money to afford the rent. They do not even want a criminal staying with them.
One of my posts explains a horror story that started with a long term guest.
The second way to avoid extra tenants is to know what goes on in your property. Whether it is a regular inspection, a periodic drive-by looking for extra cars, or a personal visit to replace furnace filters, drop off papers, pick up rent, etc. It helps to be aware of your property. Know if it is actually a visitor, or a new tenant.
Once you identify the extra tenant, find out who they are, why they are staying there, how long they will be there. Often, the situation will resolve itself in a few days. If a week goes by, you need to take action. Find out the tenants name and date of birth. Drop off an application for them to fill out. Do a preliminary screen on the court site web page. You need to be aware of what happens at your property, who is living there, and take action to avoid issues.
One thing for sure, if you have more tenants than you originally contracted for, you will have more wear and tear, and most likely less profitability.
To summarize. Avoid extra tenants. When they are found, know who they are and how long they will be there. Get an application filed out, and submit it to the background check company. Or get rid of the ‘guest’ immediately.
Extra guests are generally someone that will be an issue in the near future, and cause extra expenses in the long run.
Have you ever had a long term guest? A relative that stops by for a visit and stays? A friend who needs a place to stay, just for a day or two (and they stay…)?