Finding good renters can be difficult. Of all the screening methods available—prequalifications, applications, and background checks—there’s another option potentially available to landlords: landlord reference letters.
You want to make sure you take every precaution possible when searching for the right renter to your property. And recommendation letters from a tenant’s previous landlords can provide genuine and holistic insight into what type of renter your applicant is.
However, there are many questions you may have about how to request or get a letter of reference from your landlord. Below, we’ve answered commonly asked questions to help make the process a little easier for landlords & tenants!
What is a landlord referral letter?
A landlord reference letter, which is sent by a landlord to another landlord and contains information about a specific tenant, is called a landlord reference letter. This recommendation letter provides information about the renter’s previous tenancy and usually includes information
How do I get a reference letter from a landlord?
You can only ask your former landlord to provide a reference letter for you landlord. Contact them with the contact information provided during your tenancy to request a recommendation.
A reference letter from your landlord could prove to be a great way to show potential landlords that you are reliable and responsible tenants, especially if you have let your residence on good terms.
Also, your landlord may request a reference letter. If so, please let your landlord know your contact information to enable them to send you your recommendation.
What is a landlord reference letter?
Ask your prospective landlord for the format of their landlord reference letter.
- Paper
- Electronically signed document
- Phone call
This will help you determine the format of a landlord reference letter. Traditionally, landlord recommendations come in paper form with a signature from your previous landlord, but with today’s technology, many other forms (such as email or electronically signed document) are becoming more common.
Conclusion
For landlords, helping previous tenants find new housing with a landlord reference letter can be a nice gesture—especially if your former renter followed your lease specifications, paid rent on time, and took good care of your property. It’s even more so of a nice gesture on behalf of the potential landlord, especially if you yourself consider how beneficial you find a landlord reference letter.
For potential landlords, prescreening, getting applications, and requesting tenant screenings can do a lot to narrow down which renter you’ll choose for your unit. Tenant recommendation letters are a good way to find out more about the applicant and how they will behave in a tenancy.
A reference letter from an existing landlord is a must for tenants. It can set you apart from other applicants, and show the landlord that you are serious about getting the residence.
