When looking for a new rental property, landlords may require a character reference to ensure that you are a reliable tenant. This article will provide tips and examples to help you write a character reference for a landlord. You can use these examples as a guide and edit them as needed to suit your situation.
Tips for Writing a Character Reference for Landlord
Before writing a character reference for a landlord, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Understand the Purpose
A character reference for a landlord should provide insight into your character, reliability, and trustworthiness as a tenant. The landlord wants to know if you will pay rent on time, follow the rules, and take care of the property. Keep this in mind as you write your letter.
2. Be Honest
It is important to be honest in your character reference, even if it is not all positive. If you have had issues with paying rent or following rules in the past, it is best to address them directly in your letter. The landlord will appreciate your honesty, and it may help you overcome any concerns they have.
3. Provide Details
When writing a character reference, it is important to provide specific examples and details to support your claims. For example, instead of saying, “They are a responsible tenant,” you could say, “They always pay rent on time and keep the property clean and well-maintained.”
4. Keep it Concise
A character reference should be about one page long and should not ramble. Stick to the facts and stay on topic.
5. Use Professional Language
Make sure to use professional language and proper grammar and spelling in your character reference. This will show the landlord that you take the process seriously.
6. Include Contact Information
At the end of your character reference, include your contact information so that the landlord can reach out to you if they have any questions or concerns.
Examples of Character Reference for Landlord
1. Reliable Tenant
Dear [Landlord Name],
It is my pleasure to recommend [Tenant Name] as a reliable and trustworthy tenant. As their [friend/colleague/etc.], I have had the pleasure of knowing them for [length of time] and can attest to their strong character and responsible nature.
[Provide specific examples of their reliability, such as paying rent on time or taking care of the property. You can also mention any positive interactions you have had with the tenant.]
I have no doubt that [Tenant Name] will make an excellent tenant and would be an asset to your property. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or require further information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
2. Friendly and Respectful Tenant
Dear [Landlord Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant for your rental property. As their [neighbour/friend/etc.], I have had the pleasure of knowing them for [length of time] and can attest to their friendly and respectful nature.
[Provide specific examples of their friendliness and respectfulness, such as being considerate of neighbours or taking care of shared spaces.]
[Tenant Name] has always been a pleasure to be around and is well-liked by those who know them. I have no doubt that they will make a great tenant and would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
3. Responsible and Trustworthy Tenant
Dear [Landlord Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant for your rental property. As their former landlord, I can attest to their responsible and trustworthy nature.
[Provide specific examples of their responsibility and trustworthiness, such as always paying rent on time or taking care of the property.]
During their tenancy, [Tenant Name] always followed the rules and took excellent care of the property. I never had any issues with them and would gladly rent to them again in the future.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
4. Highly Recommended Tenant
Dear [Landlord Name],
This letter is to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant for your rental property. I have had the pleasure of knowing them for [length of time] and can attest to their excellent character and reliability.
[Provide specific examples of their character and reliability, such as being responsible and dependable.]
[Tenant Name] is highly respected in their community and is always willing to lend a helping hand. I have no doubt that they will make a great tenant and would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
5. Respectful and Responsible Tenant
Dear [Landlord Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant for your rental property. As their [employer/teacher/etc.], I have had the pleasure of working with them for [length of time] and can attest to their respectful and responsible nature.
[Provide specific examples of their respectfulness and responsibility, such as being punctual and reliable.]
[Tenant Name] has always been a model employee/student and is well-liked by those they work/study with. I have no doubt that they will be an excellent tenant and would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
6. Trustworthy and Dependable Tenant
Dear [Landlord Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant Name] as a tenant for your rental property. As their [friend/family member/etc.], I have had the pleasure of knowing them for [length of time] and can attest to their trustworthy and dependable nature.
[Provide specific examples of their trustworthiness and dependability, such as being honest and following through on commitments.]
[Tenant Name] is someone who can always be counted on to do the right thing and follow through on their promises. I have no doubt that they will make an excellent tenant and would be happy to provide any additional information you may need.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I write a character reference if I am not a landlord?
Yes, you can still write a character reference even if you are not a landlord. You can write as a friend, colleague, neighbour, or someone who knows the tenant well. The important thing is to provide insight into the tenant’s character, reliability, and trustworthiness as a tenant.
What should I include in a character reference for a landlord?
A character reference for a landlord should include specific examples of the tenant’s reliability, responsibility, and trustworthiness. You should also include your name and contact information at the end of the letter.
How long should a character reference be for a landlord?
A character reference for a landlord should be about one page long. It should be long enough to provide specific examples and details but not so long that it becomes rambling or repetitive.
Do I need to include the tenant’s rental history in a character reference?
It is not necessary to include the tenant’s rental history in a character reference, but you can if you feel it is relevant. The purpose of the letter is to provide insight into the tenant’s character, so focus on examples that demonstrate their reliability, responsibility, and trustworthiness as a tenant.
Can I email the character reference to the landlord?
It is best to ask the landlord if they prefer a physical letter or an email. If they prefer an email, make sure to include a clear subject line and attach the letter as a PDF or Word document.
Do I need to sign the character reference?
Yes, you should sign the character reference and include your contact information at the end of the letter. This will show the landlord that the letter is authentic and that they can reach out to you if they have any questions or concerns.
Conclusion
Writing a character reference for a landlord can be a helpful way to show that you are a reliable and trustworthy tenant. By following these tips and using the examples provided, you can write an effective character reference that will help you stand out from other applicants. Remember to be honest, provide specific examples, and keep it concise. Good luck!