If you’re a landlord, you may be called upon to write a reference letter for a tenant. This letter can be an important part of the tenant’s application for a new rental, so it’s important to get it right. In this article, we’ll provide tips on how to write a great landlord reference letter, as well as seven examples you can use as a starting point. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or new to the game, you’ll find the information you need to write an effective letter.
Tips for Writing a Landlord Reference Letter
When writing a landlord reference letter, it’s important to keep the following tips in mind:
1. Be Honest
The most important thing is to be truthful. Don’t oversell the tenant’s positive qualities or downplay their negative ones. Be honest and straightforward in your assessment of the tenant.
2. Use Professional Language
Use professional language throughout the letter. Avoid slang, abbreviations, and emoticons.
3. Be Specific
Provide specific examples of the tenant’s behavior or qualities. This will give the reader a better understanding of the tenant’s character.
4. Keep it Brief
A landlord reference letter should be no longer than one page. Keep it brief and to the point.
5. Edit and Proofread
Before sending the letter, make sure to edit and proofread it carefully. Typos and grammatical errors can detract from the letter’s credibility.
6. Offer Contact Information
Provide your contact information in the letter so the landlord can follow up with any questions.
Landlord Reference Letter Sample Examples
Rental Application
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am happy to recommend [Tenant’s Name] for their new rental application. As a tenant, they were always on time with their rent and kept their apartment clean and tidy. I never had any problems with them during their tenancy, and I believe they would make an excellent tenant for your property.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Employment Verification
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to verify that [Tenant’s Name] was employed at my company from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During this time, they were a reliable and hardworking employee who always showed up on time and produced high-quality work. I have no doubt that they will be an excellent tenant for your property.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Personal Recommendation
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I have known [Tenant’s Name] for [Number of Years] years, and I can confidently recommend them as a tenant. They are responsible, trustworthy, and always pay their bills on time. I believe they would make an excellent addition to your property.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Eviction
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
This letter is to confirm that [Tenant’s Name] was evicted from my property on [Eviction Date]. During their tenancy, they consistently failed to pay their rent on time and caused damage to the property. I would not recommend them as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Late Rent Payments
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to confirm that [Tenant’s Name] was a tenant at my property from [Start Date] to [End Date]. During their tenancy, they were consistently late with their rent payments. While they eventually paid in full, I would not recommend them as a tenant to anyone who requires timely rent payments.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Reference for Property Damage
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
This letter is to confirm that [Tenant’s Name] caused damage to my property during their tenancy. Specifically, they [Describe the Damage]. While they eventually paid for the repairs, I would not recommend them as a tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference for Noise Complaints
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to confirm that [Tenant’s Name] received multiple noise complaints during their tenancy at my property. While they eventually reduced the noise level, I would not recommend them as a tenant to anyone who requires a quiet living environment.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I include in a landlord reference letter?
A landlord reference letter should include basic information about the tenant, such as their name and the dates of their tenancy, as well as an assessment of their behavior and character. You should be honest and provide specific examples of the tenant’s behavior.
How do I start a landlord reference letter?
Start with a greeting that includes the landlord’s name. Introduce yourself and explain your relationship to the tenant. Then, provide a brief summary of the tenant’s behavior and character.
What should I avoid in a landlord reference letter?
Avoid overselling the tenant’s positive qualities or downplaying their negative ones. Be honest and straightforward in your assessment of the tenant. Also, avoid using slang, abbreviations, and emoticons.
How long should a landlord reference letter be?
A landlord reference letter should be no longer than one page. Keep it brief and to the point.
How should I format a landlord reference letter?
A landlord reference letter should be formatted like a business letter, with a professional greeting and complimentary close. It should be single-spaced with double spacing between paragraphs. Use a standard font and font size.
Should I offer my contact information in a landlord reference letter?
Yes, provide your contact information in the letter so the landlord can follow up with any questions.
Conclusion
Writing a landlord reference letter may seem daunting, but with the tips and examples provided in this article, you’ll be well on your way to creating a letter that accurately reflects the tenant’s behavior and character. Whether you’re recommending a tenant for a new rental or providing a reference for a tenant’s employment or eviction history, you’ll find the information you need to write a great letter.