A landlord reference shows you have paid rent and looked after a place before. Not everyone has one, especially if you have moved around, lived with family, or been homeless. If you cannot give a landlord reference, you still have options.
Who else can give a reference
- •A support worker, key worker or social worker
- •A previous employer
- •A college tutor or training provider
- •A doctor, probation officer or another professional who knows you
- •A charity or hostel you have stayed with
Be upfront about your situation
It usually works better to explain your situation than to hope it does not come up. A short, honest note about where you are and why you can be trusted goes a long way, and supported housing providers are often more flexible about references. Our guide on what a provider should tell you upfront covers the flip side of that conversation.
Other ways to reassure a landlord
- •Offer a guarantor if you have someone who can act as one.
- •Show proof you manage your rent, such as benefit or bank statements.
- •Offer to pay rent in advance if you can.
- •Keep any past agreements or letters that show your history.
Build a track record over time
Every place you rent and pay for on time becomes a reference for the next. Keep copies of your agreements and stay on good terms with landlords and support staff, so you always have someone to vouch for you.