As a landlord, providing a reference for a tenant is an important way to help them secure a new rental property. A reference letter can include details about the tenant’s behavior, payment history, and more. In this article, we’ll provide some tips for creating a strong reference letter and share some examples that you can use as a template.
Tips for Writing a Reference For Tenant From Landlord
Here are some guidelines to follow when writing a reference for your tenant:
1. Be Honest
When writing a reference letter, it’s important to be honest about your tenant’s behavior and payment history. Don’t exaggerate their strengths, but also don’t sugarcoat their weaknesses.
2. Keep it Professional
A reference letter is a professional document, so keep the tone formal and avoid any personal anecdotes or jokes. Stick to the facts and highlight the tenant’s positive qualities.
3. Include Specific Details
Provide specific examples of the tenant’s behavior, such as consistently paying rent on time or being respectful to neighbors. This helps to paint a clear picture of the tenant’s character and reliability.
4. Use Letterhead or Official Stationery
Using letterhead or official stationery can give the reference letter a more professional look and add credibility to your recommendation.
5. Offer Contact Information
Include your contact information in case the landlord or property manager has any further questions or concerns about the tenant.
Examples of Reference For Tenant From Landlord
Example 1: Strong Payment History
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who has been a tenant in my property for the past two years. During that time, [Tenant’s Name] has been an excellent tenant who always paid their rent on time and in full.
They have respected the property and kept it in good condition, reporting any maintenance issues promptly. I would highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] to any landlord looking for a reliable and responsible tenant.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Positive Behavior Towards Neighbors
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your property. [Tenant’s Name] has been a tenant in my property for the past year and has been a pleasure to work with.
They have been respectful towards their neighbors and have not caused any disturbances in the building. In addition, they have shown great care for the property and have kept it in excellent condition.
I believe that [Tenant’s Name] would be an excellent tenant for your property and I strongly recommend them.
If you have any further questions or would like to discuss [Tenant’s Name]’s tenancy further, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Lease Renewal Request
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to request a reference for my tenant, [Tenant’s Name], who is applying to renew their lease. [Tenant’s Name] has been a tenant in my property for the past two years and has been an excellent tenant.
They have paid their rent on time and in full every month, respected the property, and have been a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant and would be happy to renew their lease.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Employment Verification
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to verify the employment of [Tenant’s Name], who is currently a tenant in your property. [Tenant’s Name] has been employed as a [Job Title] at [Company Name] since [Start Date].
[Tenant’s Name] has consistently earned a steady income and has always paid their rent on time and in full. I believe that they are a reliable and responsible tenant and I recommend them without reservation.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Early Lease Termination
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who is requesting an early termination of their lease. [Tenant’s Name] has been a tenant in my property for the past year and has always been a reliable and responsible tenant.
They have paid their rent on time and in full every month and have taken great care of the property. I believe that [Tenant’s Name] would be a great tenant for any landlord and I highly recommend them.
Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: First-Time Tenant
Dear [Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant for your property. While [Tenant’s Name] has not rented a property before, they have been a responsible and reliable individual in their dealings with me.
[Tenant’s Name] has consistently paid their rent on time and has been respectful of the property. They have been a pleasure to work with and I believe that they would make an excellent tenant for your property.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or concerns.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I write a reference for a tenant?
To write a reference for a tenant, include specific details about their behavior and payment history. Be honest and professional, and offer contact information in case the landlord has further questions or concerns.
What should I include in a reference for a tenant?
A reference for a tenant should include details about their behavior, payment history, and any other relevant information that would help the landlord make an informed decision.
Do I need to use official stationery?
Using official stationery or letterhead can give your reference letter a more professional look and add credibility to your recommendation, but it’s not strictly necessary.
What if I don’t have anything positive to say?
If you don’t have anything positive to say about a tenant, it’s best to decline their request for a reference letter. You don’t want to damage their chances of securing a new rental property, but you also don’t want to compromise your own honesty and integrity.
Can I include personal anecdotes in a reference letter?
No, it’s best to keep a reference letter professional and avoid any personal anecdotes or jokes.
What should I do if I’m asked to provide a reference for a tenant I had issues with?
If you’re asked to provide a reference for a tenant you had issues with, it’s best to decline the request. You don’t want to damage their chances of securing a new rental property, but you also don’t want to compromise your own honesty and integrity.
Conclusion
Providing a reference for a tenant is an important way to help them secure a new rental property. By following these tips and using our examples as a template, you can create a reference letter that highlights your tenant’s positive qualities and helps them stand out to potential landlords.