If you’re a landlord or property manager, it’s important to have a reference for rental property to help you screen potential tenants. A reference for rental property is a document that verifies a tenant’s rental history and helps you evaluate whether they would be a good fit for your property. In this article, we’ll provide tips for creating a reference for rental property, as well as seven examples you can use as templates.
Tips for Creating a Reference for Rental Property
Creating a reference for rental property doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to help you:
- Include the tenant’s name and contact information
- List the dates of their tenancy
- Describe the property they rented
- Describe their payment history
- Explain any issues or concerns you had with the tenant
- Provide your contact information in case the new landlord has questions
Keep in mind that you can find many examples of reference for rental property online that you can edit to fit your needs. Just make sure to personalize them with your own information and experiences.
Seven Examples of Reference for Rental Property
Excellent Tenant with No Issues
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented my [type of property] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] was an excellent tenant who paid their rent on time and took good care of the property. They were always respectful and courteous when communicating with me, and I have no hesitation recommending them as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Good Tenant with Minor Issues
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented my [type of property] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] was generally a good tenant, but there were a few minor issues that came up. Specifically, [describe the issues]. Despite these issues, I believe that [Tenant’s Name] would make a good tenant and I recommend them with some reservations.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Tenant with Late Payments
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented my [type of property] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] was generally a good tenant, but they had some issues with paying rent on time. Specifically, [describe the late payments]. Despite these issues, I believe that [Tenant’s Name] has the potential to be a good tenant and I recommend them with some reservations.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Tenant with Property Damage
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented my [type of property] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] caused some damage to the property, specifically [describe the damage]. While [Tenant’s Name] eventually paid for the repairs, I would recommend caution if considering them as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Tenant with Noise Complaints
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented my [type of property] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] caused some noise complaints from neighboring tenants, specifically [describe the complaints]. While [Tenant’s Name] eventually addressed the issue, I would recommend caution if considering them as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Tenant with Lease Violations
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented my [type of property] from [start date] to [end date]. During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] violated the lease by [describe the violation]. While [Tenant’s Name] eventually corrected the issue, I would recommend caution if considering them as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Tenant with Eviction
Dear [New Landlord],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who was evicted from my property on [eviction date]. While I cannot recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant due to the circumstances of their eviction, I am happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name and Contact Information]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ask for a reference for rental property from a tenant’s previous landlord?
Yes, you can ask for a reference for rental property from a tenant’s previous landlord. It’s a good idea to verify a tenant’s rental history to ensure they are a good fit for your property.
What information should I include in a reference for rental property?
A reference for rental property should include the tenant’s name and contact information, the dates of their tenancy, a description of the property they rented, their payment history, any issues or concerns you had with the tenant, and your contact information in case the new landlord has questions.
Can I use a reference for rental property template?
Yes, you can find many examples of reference for rental property online that you can edit to fit your needs. Just make sure to personalize them with your own information and experiences.
Do I have to provide a reference for rental property if a tenant asks for one?
No, as a landlord or property manager, you are not obligated to provide a reference for rental property if a tenant asks for one. However, it’s generally a good idea to provide one if you feel comfortable doing so.
What should I do if I receive a negative reference for rental property for a potential tenant?
If you receive a negative reference for rental property for a potential tenant, it’s up to you to decide whether to proceed with the tenancy. Consider the information provided in the reference carefully and make an informed decision.
Can I ask a tenant to provide a reference for rental property from a previous landlord?
Yes, you can ask a tenant to provide a reference for rental property from a previous landlord. However, keep in mind that a tenant may not have a good relationship with their previous landlord, so it’s not always possible to obtain a reference.
Conclusion
A reference for rental property is an important tool for landlords and property managers to evaluate potential tenants. By following the tips we’ve provided and using the examples as templates, you can create a reference that will help you make informed decisions about who to rent your property to.