What Is a Personal Reference on a Rental Application?

Landlords frequently request personal references to gain a broader understanding of an applicant’s character. Understanding the role of these references and how to effectively provide them can significantly strengthen a rental application.

The Role of Personal References

A personal reference on a rental application is a recommendation from someone who can speak to an applicant’s character and reliability. This type of reference offers landlords insights beyond what credit reports or employment verification can provide. Its primary purpose is to help property owners assess an applicant’s suitability as a tenant. Landlords seek to determine if an individual will maintain the property, adhere to community guidelines, and consistently fulfill their financial obligations, such as paying rent on time.

Personal references contribute to a comprehensive picture of an applicant, especially for those with limited rental history or challenges in their financial past. While financial and background checks are standard, a personal reference adds a human element, offering an outside perspective on an applicant’s conduct and trustworthiness. This additional information helps landlords make informed decisions, building trust with potential tenants.

Choosing Suitable References

Selecting appropriate personal references is an important step in the rental application process. Individuals who can objectively attest to your responsibility, reliability, and conduct are typically preferred. Suitable references often include former employers, colleagues, teachers, mentors, or community leaders who have known you in a professional or structured capacity. Neighbors who can speak to your respectful behavior and how you maintain your living space are also good options.

Conversely, certain individuals are generally not suitable as personal references due to perceived bias. Close family members, such as parents or siblings, and intimate partners are typically discounted or disallowed by landlords. Their opinions, while positive, may not be seen as objective by a property manager. It is also advisable to avoid former landlords or employers with whom you had a difficult relationship, as they may provide unfavorable feedback that could hinder your application.

Information Needed from References

When providing personal references, applicants should be prepared to supply specific details to the landlord. This typically includes the reference’s full name, current phone number, and email address. Landlords also need to know the reference’s relationship to the applicant (e.g., former employer, mentor) and the duration for which they have known the applicant. This context helps the landlord understand the nature and depth of the relationship.

Landlords may contact references directly to ask a range of questions about the applicant. Common inquiries include how long they have known the applicant, their assessment of the applicant’s character and reliability, and whether they would recommend the applicant as a tenant. Questions might also delve into the applicant’s responsibility, their ability to pay bills promptly, and how they generally conduct themselves. It is beneficial to inform your references that they may be contacted and to confirm they are comfortable providing a positive recommendation.

Including References in Your Application

Most rental application forms include a designated section for personal references where you will transcribe the collected details. This involves accurately listing each reference’s full name, contact information, and their relationship to you.

It is important to double-check all information for accuracy before submitting your application. Any errors, such as incorrect phone numbers or email addresses, can delay the processing of your application or prevent the landlord from reaching your references. After submission, landlords may contact your references by phone or email to verify information and gain further insight into your suitability as a tenant.