No one wants to have to declare bankruptcy but sometimes life circumstances are beyond your control and leave you no choice. If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, or you’ve recently been approved, you may be wondering if it will impact your ability to rent an apartment.

Below, take a look at how bankruptcy may affect your credit score and your chances of renting an apartment or other home. We’ll also provide some tips on what you can do to improve your chances of finding a place to rent after bankruptcy and what a Texas attorney can do to help.

How Filing Bankruptcy Impacts Your Ability to Rent

When you file for bankruptcy, it will appear on your credit score for up to ten years, but usually no less than seven. This can make it difficult or even impossible to rent an apartment, as most landlords will check your credit score before approving you for a lease.

If your credit score is low, you may be required to pay a higher security deposit or monthly rent, or you may also be denied outright. Alternatively, only dodgy landlords of poorly-maintained properties may accept your application, leaving you in an unsafe area or deteriorating building.

How Landlords May Respond to Your Bankruptcy

While some landlords may be hesitant to approve tenants with a bankruptcy on their record, others may not mind as much. It’s important to do your research and find a landlord that’s willing to work with you.

Some landlords may require a larger security deposit from tenants with bankruptcy in their history. Others may ask for references from previous landlords or employers, and some landlords may simply choose not to rent to anyone with bankruptcy in their past.

How a Qualified Texas Bankruptcy Lawyer Can Assist You

If you’re considering filing for bankruptcy, it’s important to speak with a qualified bankruptcy lawyer before making any decisions. A lawyer can help you understand the pros and cons of bankruptcy and how it will impact your ability to rent an apartment in the future.

They can also help you navigate the bankruptcy process and ensure that all of your paperwork is filed correctly. This can help reduce the stress associated with bankruptcy and give you peace of mind knowing that you’re taking care of everything correctly. Contact Sims Bankruptcy Law, PLLC today by dialing 469-751-7467 (DFW) or 254-304-7161 (Central Texas).