When finding the right apartment to rent it is often important to provide references. Landlords will often want to know your renting history and if you are reliable. Renting references give landlords an insight into who you are. From those who have either employed or lived with you in a renting situation. If you’re a beginner, knowing what references are, and how to provide them can make your application more organised and increase your chance of getting the right apartment.
The Purpose of Rental References
Renting references allow landlords to get an insight into whether you were a responsible tenant. Previous landlords will often be asked if you paid your rent on time, kept the property in a good condition and if you adhered to the lease. This can help landlords determine any risk factors.
They can also help verify your information. For example, how long you lived at your previous address, and if your tenancy was completed correctly. While they aren’t the only thing landlords look at, they can give them a better understanding of who you are, along with your income verification, credit check and application.
The Best People to Provide References
Generally previous landlords will give the best references. They can give real insight into how you were as a tenant. How you paid your rent, how you communicated, how you took care of the property and if you adhered to the renting terms. Even if you’re a beginner and have only rented a room, shared accommodation or lived in a student residence there will likely still be someone to confirm your housing history.
If you haven’t rented before then you may need to look elsewhere for a reference. A property manager, employer or professional contact can help show you are reliable and responsible. They won’t know as much as a landlord would but can still help. Always ask the landlord what alternative references they would be happy to take. It is always better to pick references who can give you specific information.
The Information Landlords May Request
Landlords often ask for your reference’s full name, contact details, relationship to you, and the address of where you lived. They may ask when you were a tenant there and if they can contact them. Being thorough and providing correct information can help reduce any issues.
Always ensure the information is up to date. If the number isn’t correct or the job title is wrong this can cause issues. It is also a good idea to ask if they would prefer to be contacted via phone or email. If you’re looking at Montreal apartments for rent you can get this information together so you can reply quickly when you find the right listing.
Preparing References Before Applying
It is important to contact your references. Let them know you are looking for an apartment, ask if they are happy to provide a reference, and confirm what contact details you will give. This shows you are polite and gives them time to prepare.
You could also remind them of the address and approximate dates you were a tenant there. This can be helpful if it has been a few years. However do not put pressure on them to give specific answers. This can help you create a more credible application by giving truthful and consistent information.
Addressing Limited Rental History
If you haven’t rented before you may be worried about not having a previous landlord. However this doesn’t mean you can’t get an apartment. Students, recent graduates and those moving out of their family home can often show they are reliable through other documentation and references.
Providing income verification, confirmation of employment or showing you can afford the rent can help. Depending on what the landlord requires and any laws in place a professional reference or someone who knows you are financially responsible can help. Always be clear why you don’t have any renting history. Providing a complete application can help make up for this.
Protecting Reference Information
As you will be providing personal information it is important to be careful. Only provide your contact details to genuine landlords/property managers. Ensure whoever is asking for sensitive documents is who they say they are and understand how they will use your information.
Do not provide any unnecessary personal information. Generally landlords just need enough information to verify your reference. Keeping your communication professional will help keep everyone safe.
Conclusion
Renting references can help you as a beginner show you’re reliable. By finding the right people, ensuring they can help, providing correct information and being honest about any gaps in your renting history you will present yourself well to potential landlords. By preparing your references you will also reduce any delays. As a beginner you can respond quickly when you find the right apartment for you.
