If you are a landlord or property manager, you may be asked to provide a reference letter for a former tenant. While a standard reference letter can be quite lengthy and detailed, there may be times when you need to provide a shorter version. In this article, we will discuss what a short landlord reference letter is, provide tips on how to write one, and include several examples that you can edit to fit your needs.
Tips for Writing a Short Landlord Reference Letter
When writing a short landlord reference letter, keep the following tips in mind:
1. Keep it brief
A short reference letter should be no more than one page in length. Stick to the most important details and avoid elaborating on unnecessary information.
2. Use a clear and concise format
Use a standard business letter format with a professional tone. Make sure to include the date, the tenant’s name, and your contact information at the top of the letter.
3. Highlight the tenant’s strengths
Focus on the tenant’s positive qualities, such as their reliability, responsibility, and cleanliness. Give specific examples to support your statements.
4. Include your contact information
Make sure to include your name, phone number, and email address in case the potential landlord has any questions or concerns.
5. Offer to provide additional information
Let the potential landlord know that you are available to provide additional information if needed.
Short Landlord Reference Letter Examples
Example 1: Verification of Rent Payment
Dear [Potential Landlord],
I am writing to confirm that [Tenant Name] was a tenant in good standing in [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. During that time, [Tenant Name] paid their rent on time every month and kept the property in excellent condition.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: End of Lease Recommendation
Dear [Potential Landlord],
This letter is to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant. [Tenant Name] rented [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date], during which time they were a model tenant. They always paid their rent on time and kept the property clean and well-maintained.
I would highly recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant and would not hesitate to rent to them again in the future.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Character Reference
Dear [Potential Landlord],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Tenant Name] for a lease. [Tenant Name] was a tenant in good standing in [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. During that time, I found [Tenant Name] to be responsible, trustworthy, and respectful.
[Tenant Name] always paid their rent on time and took care of the property. They are a great tenant and I highly recommend them to you without reservation.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Short and Simple
Dear [Potential Landlord],
This letter is to confirm that [Tenant Name] was a tenant in good standing in [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. During that time, [Tenant Name] was a responsible tenant who paid their rent on time and took care of the property.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: New Employer Reference
Dear [Potential Employer],
This letter is to confirm that [Employee Name] was a tenant in good standing in [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. During that time, [Employee Name] was a responsible tenant who paid their rent on time and took care of the property.
I am confident that [Employee Name] will be a valuable asset to your organization and recommend them without reservation.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: New Rental Application
Dear [Potential Landlord],
This letter is to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant. [Tenant Name] was a tenant in good standing in [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. During that time, they were a responsible tenant who paid their rent on time and took care of the property.
I would highly recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant and am confident that they would make a valuable addition to your property.
If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 7: Non-Renewal of Lease
Dear [Potential Landlord],
This letter is to confirm that [Tenant Name] was a tenant in good standing in [Property Address] from [Lease Start Date] to [Lease End Date]. Unfortunately, we will not be renewing their lease at the end of their contract.
During their time in the property, [Tenant Name] was a responsible tenant who paid their rent on time and took care of the property. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a landlord refuse to write a reference letter?
Landlords are not legally obligated to provide reference letters for former tenants. However, refusing to write a letter may harm your relationship with the tenant and could even lead to legal disputes.
What should I include in a reference letter?
A reference letter should include the tenant’s full name, the property address, the dates of their tenancy, and a description of their character and behavior as a tenant. You should also include your contact information in case the potential landlord has any questions or concerns.
How long should a reference letter be?
A standard reference letter can be up to two pages in length, but a short reference letter should be no more than one page.
Can I edit the examples to fit my needs?
Yes, feel free to edit the examples to fit your specific situation. You can add or remove information as needed and personalize the letter to match your writing style.
Do I need to provide a reference letter for every tenant?
It is not necessary to provide a reference letter for every tenant. You should only provide a reference letter if requested by the tenant or the potential landlord.
What if I don’t have anything positive to say about the tenant?
If you don’t have anything positive to say about the tenant, it is best to decline the request for a reference letter. Providing a negative reference letter could harm the tenant’s chances of finding new housing and could even lead to legal disputes.
Conclusion
Providing a short landlord reference letter can be a useful tool for both tenants and potential landlords. By following the tips outlined in this article and using the examples provided, you can create a professional reference letter that will help your former tenants find new housing and maintain positive relationships with potential landlords.