If you’re a landlord, you may be asked to write a reference letter for one of your tenants. This letter can help the tenant secure a new rental, job, or other opportunity. In this article, we’ll provide tips for writing a strong reference letter, as well as seven examples you can use as a template. Additionally, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about reference letters from landlords.
Tips for Writing a Reference Letter From Landlord
When writing a reference letter from landlord, it’s important to keep these tips in mind:
Reference Letter for Rental Application
Dear [Name],
I am writing this letter to confirm that [Tenant Name] has been a tenant in good standing at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date]. During this time, [Tenant Name] has always paid rent on time and has taken good care of the property. They are quiet, respectful, and have been an asset to the community.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I highly recommend [Tenant Name] as a responsible and reliable tenant.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for Employment
Dear [Hiring Manager],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Tenant Name] for employment with your company. [Tenant Name] has been a tenant at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date], and during this time they have been a model tenant. They are reliable, responsible, and have always paid rent on time.
As their landlord, I have had several interactions with [Tenant Name] and can attest to their positive qualities. They are respectful, courteous, and easy to communicate with. I believe that [Tenant Name] would be an asset to your company, and I highly recommend them for the position.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for Immigration
Dear [Immigration Officer],
I am writing this letter to confirm that [Tenant Name] has been a tenant at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date]. During this time, they have been a responsible tenant who always pays rent on time and takes good care of the property.
[Tenant Name] has informed me that they are in the process of applying for immigration to [Country]. I would like to take this opportunity to recommend them as a trustworthy and responsible person who would make a positive contribution to your country.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for Graduate School
Dear [Admissions Committee],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Tenant Name] for admission to graduate school. [Tenant Name] has been a tenant at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date], and during this time they have been a model tenant. They are reliable, responsible, and have always paid rent on time.
I have had several interactions with [Tenant Name] and have been impressed with their intelligence, work ethic, and dedication. They are a hardworking individual who is committed to their goals, and I believe that they would make an excellent addition to your graduate program.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I highly recommend [Tenant Name] for admission to your program.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for Personal Loan
Dear [Lender],
I am writing this letter to confirm that [Tenant Name] has been a tenant at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date]. During this time, they have always paid rent on time and have been a responsible tenant who takes good care of the property.
[Tenant Name] has informed me that they are seeking a personal loan, and I highly recommend them as a trustworthy and responsible individual who would make timely payments on any loan they receive.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for Adoption
Dear [Adoption Agency],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Tenant Name] for adoption. [Tenant Name] has been a tenant at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date], and during this time they have been a model tenant. They are reliable, responsible, and have always paid rent on time.
I have had several interactions with [Tenant Name] and have been impressed with their kindness, generosity, and love for children. They are a caring and compassionate individual who would make an excellent parent, and I believe that they would provide a loving and nurturing home for any child they adopt.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I highly recommend [Tenant Name] for adoption.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Reference Letter for Volunteer Work
Dear [Volunteer Coordinator],
I am writing this letter to recommend [Tenant Name] for volunteer work with your organization. [Tenant Name] has been a tenant at [Property Address] since [Move-in Date], and during this time they have been a model tenant. They are reliable, responsible, and have always paid rent on time.
I have had several interactions with [Tenant Name] and have been impressed with their dedication to helping others. They are a compassionate individual who is committed to making a positive impact in their community, and I believe that they would be an asset to your organization.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I highly recommend [Tenant Name] for volunteer work.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I refuse to write a reference letter for a tenant?
Yes, as a landlord, you have the right to refuse to write a reference letter for a tenant. However, it’s important to be clear and honest with your reasons for refusing, and to avoid any discrimination or retaliation.
Do I need to include personal information about the tenant in the reference letter?
No, you should only include information that is relevant to the purpose of the letter, such as the tenant’s rental history, payment history, and other pertinent details. Avoid sharing personal information about the tenant, such as their race, religion, or sexual orientation.
How long should the reference letter be?
The reference letter should be one to two pages long, depending on the purpose and requirements of the letter. It should be clear, concise, and well-written.
Can I charge a fee for writing a reference letter?
As a landlord, you are not required to charge a fee for writing a reference letter. However, if you choose to do so, you should be transparent and upfront about the fee, and it should be reasonable and commensurate with your time and effort.
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’s best to decline the request for a reference letter. However, if you are required by law to provide a reference, you should be honest and factual, while avoiding any defamatory or discriminatory statements.
Can I use a reference letter template?
Yes, you can use a reference letter template as a starting point for your letter. However, it’s important to customize the letter to the specific circumstances and requirements of the request, and to ensure that it accurately reflects your personal experience and knowledge of the tenant.
Conclusion
Writing a reference letter from landlord can be a valuable tool for helping your tenant secure a new rental, job, or other opportunity. By following these tips, using these examples as a guide, and answering these frequently asked questions, you can create a strong and effective reference letter that reflects well on both you and your tenant.