Renting Out Your Apartment: Tenant Screening and Handover Checklist
Bought an apartment to rent out in New Damietta or Ras El Bar? Your real return depends not just on the rent but on the quality of your tenant and how you hand the unit over and take it back. A reliable tenant who pays on time and looks after the flat beats a higher rent with constant problems. Here is a practical process for screening tenants, documenting handover and managing the tenancy.
1. Prepare the unit before listing
- Fix visible plumbing, electrical, door and window problems.
- Make sure electricity, water and gas meters are properly registered and bills are paid up to handover.
- Photograph the clean unit well; clear photos attract more serious tenants.
- Decide the term, deposit, payment method and who covers which repairs before you advertise.
2. Screen tenants carefully
Have a clear conversation
Ask about household size, work or study, expected length of stay and reason for moving. Consistent answers are a good sign.
Verify identity
Take copies of national ID cards or passports for all adult occupants and check them against the originals.
Check ability to pay
Ask politely about income. For students, ask for proof of enrolment and a parent's details. Rent should be a reasonable share of income so the tenant does not fall behind.
Ask about previous housing
If possible, speak to the previous landlord about payment and care of the property.
Always sign a written lease
Even with people you know, put the term, rent, due dates, deposit, termination and renewal in writing, ideally reviewed by a lawyer.
3. The handover report
Most end-of-tenancy disputes come from not recording the unit's condition at the start. A handover report, signed by both sides and attached to the lease, should cover:
| Item | What to record |
|---|---|
| Walls and floors | Paint, tiles or parquet, existing scratches or cracks |
| Doors and windows | Number of keys, locks, glass and screens |
| Kitchen and bathrooms | Taps, sinks, water heaters, any leaks |
| Appliances and furniture | Full list with condition, if furnished |
| Meters | Electricity, water and gas readings on handover day |
Attach dated photos or video and give each party a copy. At move-out, compare against the same report, remembering that normal wear differs from damage.
4. Handling the security deposit
- State the amount and purpose in the lease.
- Specify when it is returned and that deductions must match documented damage.
- Give the tenant a receipt.
- At move-out, check final meter readings and bills before returning it.
5. During the tenancy
Document every rent payment with receipts or bank transfers, agree a clear channel for repair requests, fix major faults quickly, and arrange visits in advance to respect the tenant's privacy.
FAQ
Do I need a handover report for an unfurnished flat?
Yes. Paint, floors, fixtures, keys and meters still need recording.
Should a student tenant have a guarantor?
It is common and helpful; a parent can co-sign as guarantor. Have the wording checked legally.
What if the tenant pays late?
Start with a friendly written reminder, then a formal notice if it repeats. Never cut utilities or change locks; consult a lawyer on proper procedures.
Should I use a broker?
A broker saves time, but verification and signing remain your responsibility. Meet the tenant yourself before signing.
General information only, not legal advice. Consult a lawyer when drafting a lease or in a dispute.
On Masari you can compare unit prices, floor plans and payment plans before contacting any seller.