If you’re renting for the first time, a reference letter from an employer, a guarantor, a university or college tutor, or someone else who can vouch for you might also be accepted.
If you’ve had issues in the past or fell into rent arrears, a strong reference letter demonstrating improvement can help. And in a rental market as competitive as the UK’s, a glowing reference can set you apart from other applicants.
For landlords, requiring a reference letter from potential tenants helps to mitigate risks associated with renting out their property. It can give them peace of mind that the tenant is likely to pay rent on time, take care of the property, and stick to the terms of the tenancy agreement.
“Not every landlord asks for prior references but where they do they are usually incredibly important,” a spokesperson for the National Residential Landlords Association told the Big Issue.
“Landlords want to ensure they are letting homes to tenants who will look after the home, follow the terms of the agreement and be a good neighbour. References provide evidence of all of this.
“The current landlord is not obliged to provide a reference, but most will be happy to do so. To make the process as smooth as possible, tenants may want to consider asking if the landlord would be willing to provide one before starting to look for a new home.”
How do I get a landlord reference?
Getting a landlord reference letter can be straightforward if you follow the right steps.
Once you decide to move, inform your current landlord and ask for a reference letter. Giving them enough time to prepare the letter will likely result in a more positive and in-depth reference.
Make it easier for your landlord by giving them the relevant details about your tenancy. This could include the dates of your tenancy, the property address, and anything else they might want to include but don’t know without checking their records.
Approach your landlord in a polite and professional manner. A well-worded request can make a big difference.
If your landlord doesn’t respond promptly, don’t hesitate to politely follow up.
Landlord reference letter template
Once you have a reference from your former or current landlord, it’s time to send it to the person who will rent somewhere new to you. There are templates available online to use for this letter – like this, put together by Shelter. You might send the reference letter along with other documents such as proof of income and your credit rating.
Or if you’re a landlord writing a reference and not sure where to start, there are plenty of resources available online too.
Did the tenant pay their rent, in full and on time, without issue? Did they keep the home clean and in good condition? Were they easy to deal with and friendly to neighbours? You could consider all these elements and more when writing a reference letter.
It should be formally and set out like a standard business letter, on headed paper where possible. Address it to the landlord or letting agent who requested the reference, if you have that information.
You might write something like:
I am writing to provide a reference for [tenant’s name], who has been renting my property at [property address] from [start date] to [end date].
During this period, [tenant’s name] has been an exemplary tenant. [tenant’s name] has consistently paid rent on time and has taken great care of the home. They have maintained the property in excellent condition, and there have been no significant issues or damages reported during their tenancy.
Furthermore, [tenant’s name] has been considerate and respectful towards neighbours and has adhered to the terms of the tenancy agreement throughout their stay. Based on their conduct during their tenancy, I would not hesitate to rent to them again in the future.
Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Don’t include any personal information or subjective issues – stick to the facts.
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