Tenant Referencing — Helping Landlords Let With Confidence
Referencing helps assess a prospective tenant's suitability, giving landlords greater confidence in the tenancy.
What It Involves
What Tenant Referencing Involves
Tenant referencing is a standard part of the letting process. It typically brings together several checks to help assess whether a prospective tenant is suitable for a tenancy, including verification of employment and income, a review of credit history, and, where applicable, a reference from a previous landlord.
Right to Rent is a separate legal check, explained on our Right to Rent page, which confirms an applicant's legal right to rent property in England.
Employment & Income
Verification of employment and income to help assess whether the tenancy is affordable for the applicant.
Credit Checks
A review of an applicant's credit history to help build a picture of their financial circumstances.
Previous Landlord Reference
Where applicable, a reference from a previous landlord or letting agent about the applicant's tenancy history.
Right to Rent
Confirmation, explained separately, that the applicant has the legal right to rent property in England.
Why It Matters
Why Referencing Matters
Referencing helps both landlords and tenants start a tenancy on a clear, informed footing.
Confidence for Landlords
Referencing gives landlords greater confidence that a prospective tenant is suitable for the tenancy.
A Clear Basis
It provides a clear, consistent basis for making an informed letting decision.
Fair to Everyone
A standard process helps ensure prospective tenants are considered fairly and consistently.
The Process
The Referencing Process
Application
A prospective tenant applies and provides their details and documentation.
Checks
We coordinate identity, affordability, employment and previous landlord checks.
Right to Rent
We assist with confirming the applicant's right to rent in England.
Outcome
We share the outcome with you so you can make an informed decision.
What Landlords Can Expect
We coordinate the referencing process on your behalf and keep you informed. Once checks are complete, we share the outcome with you so you can make an informed decision about the tenancy.
Guidance for Tenants
If you're going through referencing, it helps to have your identification, proof of address and proof of income or employment ready. We'll let you know what's required and guide you through each step.
Please note. Referencing is conducted in line with applicable regulations. The information on this page is general guidance only and is not legal advice. For advice on your specific circumstances, please consult a suitably qualified professional.