Reference Request Letter from Previous Residential Landlord

This Reference Request Letter for a Previous Residential Landlord is designed for use by private residential landlords and letting agents in Wales.

It provides a simple and effective way to request a tenancy reference from a prospective contract-holder's current or previous landlord as part of the tenant referencing process.  Obtaining a previous landlord reference is an important step when assessing a prospective tenant. It can provide valuable insight into an applicant's tenancy history, helping landlords make informed decisions before granting an occupation contract. 

Why Download This Reference Request Letter

Choosing the right tenant is one of the most important decisions a landlord or letting agent will make. A previous landlord reference can help identify reliable tenants, reduce the risk of future tenancy problems, and support a consistent, professional referencing process. 

A landlord reference provides valuable information that may not be available through credit checks or affordability assessments alone. When used alongside identity verification. affordability checks and employment references, a previous landlord reference contributes to a more complete tenant assessment. 

Downloading this template can help you:

• Carry out more thorough tenant referencing
• Verify information provided by prospective contract-holders 
• Assess an applicant's previous tenancy conduct; and 
• Reduce the risk of rent arrears and tenancy disputes 

This document forms part of the pre-tenancy referencing process and supports informed decision-making before granting an occupation contract.

What Does This Letter Cover

The template enables landlords and letting agents to request relevant information about an applicant's previous tenancy or occupation contract. The template requests details of the applicants:

• rent payment history
• behaviour during the tenancy
• compliance with tenancy terms
• any breaches or issues during occupation
• general suitability as a tenant

This information assists landlords and agents in determining whether to proceed with an application. 

Before requesting a landlord reference, the prospective contract-holder must authorise the release of their information. Including written consent supports compliance with UK GDPR and demonstrates a transparent referencing process. 

How To Use This Template 

This letter should be:

• Printed on the landlord’s or letting agent’s headed paper
• Sent directly to the applicant’s current or previous landlord
• Completed and returned by the referee providing the reference
• Be retained as part of the applicant's referencing records 

This template should be adapted where necessary to reflect the landlord’s or letting agent’s specific referencing procedures and internal policies.

This Reference Request Letter from Previous Residential Landlord is in open format. Either enter the requisite details in the highlighted fields or adjust the wording to suit your purposes.

Once you have purchased access to the appropriate document folder click on the “Download Document” button below. You will be asked what you want to do with the file. It is recommended that you save the document to a location of your choice prior to viewing.

Reference Request Letter from Previous Residential Landlord is part of Property. Just £38.50 + VAT provides unlimited downloads from Property for 1 year.