How To Reference A Tenant
Overview
What this guide covers
This guide explains how to carry out thorough tenant referencing before granting a tenancy — credit checks, affordability assessment, employment verification, previous landlord references and Right to Rent checks.
Who it is for
Any landlord considering a new tenant for a private residential property in England. Good referencing is your primary defence against rent arrears, property damage and difficult tenancies.
What this guide does not cover
- –Right to Rent checks in detail (covered in How To Start A New Tenancy)
- –Referencing for lodger arrangements (different considerations apply)
- –Referencing in Wales or Scotland (different legislation)
Before you start, you will need:
- ·A completed tenant application form
- ·The prospective tenant's consent to carry out referencing checks
- ·Access to a referencing service or the ability to carry out checks yourself
When To Use This Guide
Use this guide when:
- ✓You have a prospective tenant who wants to rent your property
- ✓You are considering accepting a tenant without using a letting agent
- ✓You want to understand what referencing checks to carry out and how to assess the results
- ✓You are updating your referencing process for the Renters' Rights Act
Do not use this guide if:
- ✗You have already granted the tenancy — referencing must be done before the tenancy starts
- ✗You are using a letting agent who carries out referencing on your behalf — check their process instead