If you’re renting a property, you may be required to provide a character reference letter for your landlord. A character reference letter is a document written by someone who knows you well and can vouch for your integrity and reliability as a tenant. This letter can help your prospective landlord assess your suitability as a tenant and make a decision about whether to rent to you.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference Letter For Landlord
If you’re asked to write a character reference letter for your landlord, these tips can help you create an effective document:
1. Start with a Title
The first step in writing a character reference letter is to come up with a suitable title. Your title should clearly indicate what the letter is about and grab the reader’s attention.
For example, you could use a title like “Character Reference Letter for Prospective Tenant” or “Tenant Character Reference Letter.”
2. Explain Your Relationship to the Tenant
In the opening paragraph of your letter, explain your relationship to the tenant. This will help the landlord understand who you are and how you know the tenant.
For example, you might write: “I have known [tenant’s name] for [number of years] and have had the pleasure of being their [friend/colleague/neighbor] during that time.”
3. Provide Specific Examples
When writing a character reference letter, it’s important to provide specific examples to support your claims about the tenant’s character and reliability. These examples can help the landlord get a better sense of who the tenant is and what they’re like as a person and a tenant.
For example, you might write: “I have always found [tenant’s name] to be a responsible and considerate individual. They have consistently paid their rent on time and kept their apartment clean and tidy.”
4. Offer a Recommendation
At the end of your letter, offer a recommendation for the tenant. This can help the landlord make a decision about whether to rent to the tenant or not.
For example, you might write: “Based on my experience with [tenant’s name], I would highly recommend them as a tenant. I have no doubt that they would make an excellent addition to your rental community.”
Remember that the goal of your letter is to help the landlord make an informed decision about the tenant. By providing specific examples and a strong recommendation, you can help the tenant stand out as a reliable and trustworthy candidate.
Examples of Character Reference Letters For Landlord
Character Reference Letter for Prospective Tenant
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a prospective tenant for your rental property. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for [number of years] and can vouch for their integrity, reliability, and responsibility.
[Explain how you know the tenant and provide specific examples of their good behavior as a tenant, such as paying rent on time, keeping their apartment clean and tidy, and being respectful of their neighbors.]
Based on my experience with [Tenant’s Name], I would highly recommend them as a tenant. They are a responsible and considerate individual who would make an excellent addition to your rental community.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Tenant Character Reference Letter
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to express my support for [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Tenant’s Name] for [number of years] and can attest to their reliability, honesty, and integrity.
[Explain how you know the tenant and provide specific examples of their good behavior as a tenant, such as paying rent on time, keeping their apartment clean and tidy, and being respectful of their neighbors.]
Based on my experience with [Tenant’s Name], I believe that they would make an excellent tenant for your rental property. They are a responsible and considerate individual who takes their responsibilities as a tenant seriously.
Thank you for considering [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your property.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Character Reference Letter for Renting an Apartment
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name] in their application to rent your apartment. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for [number of years] and can attest to their reliability, honesty, and trustworthiness.
[Explain how you know the tenant and provide specific examples of their good behavior as a tenant, such as paying rent on time, keeping their apartment clean and tidy, and being respectful of their neighbors.]
Based on my experience with [Tenant’s Name], I believe that they would be an excellent tenant for your apartment. They are responsible, considerate, and take pride in their home.
Thank you for considering [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your apartment. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Character Reference Letter for Rental Property
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your rental property. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for [number of years] and can attest to their reliability, honesty, and integrity.
[Explain how you know the tenant and provide specific examples of their good behavior as a tenant, such as paying rent on time, keeping their apartment clean and tidy, and being respectful of their neighbors.]
Based on my experience with [Tenant’s Name], I believe that they would make an excellent addition to your rental community. They are a responsible and considerate individual who takes their responsibilities as a tenant seriously.
Thank you for considering [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your rental property. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Character Reference Letter for Lease
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a character reference for [Tenant’s Name] as they apply to lease your property. I have known [Tenant’s Name] for [number of years] and have always found them to be a reliable, honest, and trustworthy individual.
[Explain how you know the tenant and provide specific examples of their good behavior as a tenant, such as paying rent on time, keeping their apartment clean and tidy, and being respectful of their neighbors.]
Based on my experience with [Tenant’s Name], I would highly recommend them as a tenant. They are a responsible and considerate individual who takes their obligations seriously.
Thank you for your time and consideration. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or require additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Character Reference Letter for Tenant Screening
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your rental property. As a [friend/colleague/neighbor], I have had the pleasure of knowing [Tenant’s Name] for [number of years] and can attest to their integrity, reliability, and responsibility.
[Explain how you know the tenant and provide specific examples of their good behavior as a tenant, such as paying rent on time, keeping their apartment clean and tidy, and being respectful of their neighbors.]
Based on my experience with [Tenant’s Name], I would highly recommend them as a tenant. They are a responsible and considerate individual who would make an excellent addition to your rental community.
Thank you for considering [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your rental property.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write a character reference letter for myself?
No, you cannot write a character reference letter for yourself. A character reference letter should be written by someone who knows you well and can vouch for your character and reliability as a tenant.
What should I include in a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should include an introduction that explains your relationship to the tenant, specific examples of the tenant’s good behavior as a tenant, and a recommendation for the tenant. You should also include your contact information and offer to provide additional information if needed.
Who should I ask to write a character reference letter for me?
You should ask someone who knows you well and can vouch for your character and reliability as a tenant. This might be a friend, colleague, neighbor, or former landlord.
How long should a character reference letter be?
A character reference letter should be no longer than one page. It should be concise and to the point, while still providing enough detail to support your claims about the tenant’s character and reliability.
What format should I use for a character reference letter?
A character reference letter should be written in a formal, professional tone. It should be typed and printed on letterhead, if possible. You should also include your name, address, and contact information at the top of the letter.
Do I need to sign a character reference letter?
Yes, you should sign a character reference letter. This indicates that the letter is authentic and that you stand behind your recommendation for the tenant.
How should I deliver a character reference letter?
You can deliver a character reference letter in person, by email, or by mail. Make sure that you provide the landlord with a copy of the letter and keep a copy for your records.
Conclusion
A character reference letter can be an important part of your rental application. By following these tips and examples, you can create a strong letter that showcases your character and reliability as a tenant. Remember to be honest, specific, and concise, and to provide a strong recommendation for the tenant. With the right letter, you can increase your chances of securing the rental property you want.