Data collection by landlords – what can they legally ask a tenant?

With cybersecurity breaches on the rise, people are becoming increasingly worried about data collection by companies and wondering how secure their personal information is.

Data collection demands from real estate agents

As the nationwide shortage of rental properties continues unabated, prospective tenants are facing increasing demands from landlords and their agents for more and more detailed information on their finances and personal background.

There are reports that some agents are demanding social media accounts, children's names, pet profiles, and names and addresses of relatives during background checks. This is on top of the standard requirements of multiple identification documents, bank statements, past utility bills, employment details and rental history.