What Are References for Renting?

Finding your next apartment can feel a bit like a full-time job. There are listings to look through, documents to prepare, budgets to juggle, and showings to schedule. (Whew!) One important part of this process that sometimes catches renters a little off guard are rental references.

When you’re gearing up to apply for a rental, it’s a good idea to gather personal references that can vouch for your character and reliability as a renter. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about personal references for an apartment, including who to ask, when they’re required, and how to make sure you shine on your rental application. 

What is a personal reference? 

When we talk about references for renting, there are typically two types: professional (as in from a former landlord or employer) and personal. A personal reference for an apartment is someone who can speak to your personality, reliability, and general trustworthiness outside of formal work or financial relationships. They help landlords get a fuller picture of who you are as a renter, especially if you’re new to renting or don’t have a lot of rental history. 

While your credit score or background check are going to go a long way to prove your reliability, a personal reference offers a more human, character-based element. Think of it as someone saying to the potential landlord, “Yes, you absolutely DO want this person living in your building!”

When is a personal reference needed? 

You might not always be asked for a personal reference during a rental application, but there are definitely times when it’s a good idea to have one ready to go. These include: 

• First-time renting: Don’t have any prior renting experience? A personal reference can help fill that gap. 
• No formal rental history: Maybe you’ve been living with family or off traveling. Either way, a personal reference helps show you’re a responsible person. 
• Bouncing back from challenges: If you’ve had some financial difficulties or a spotty rental history in the past, a strong personal reference can reassure landlords that you’re dependable now. 

Who should you use as a personal reference? 

Choosing the right person for your personal reference can make a big difference. You want someone who knows you well, speaks highly of you, and — most importantly — isn’t an immediate family member. Landlords tend to prefer more objective perspectives. Each reference should be someone who feels comfortable answering questions about your character honestly and positively. A few options include: 

• Current or former coworker: A current or former coworker can vouch for your work ethic, reliability, and sense of responsibility, all important qualities landlords look for in a tenant.
• Neighbor: A neighbor you’ve lived near can speak to your respectful behavior and how well you maintain your living space, offering firsthand insight into how you’ll treat a rental property.
• Teacher or mentor: If you’re a student or recent graduate, a teacher or mentor can highlight your dedication, responsibility, and ability to meet expectations, even if you have little rental history.
• Family friend: A long-time family friend who knows you well can share examples of your integrity, reliability, and personal growth, helping landlords feel confident in your character.

Do landlords call personal references? 

The short answer to this question is: sometimes. Some landlords will reach out to personal references, especially if they’re weighing a decision between you and another renter, or when they want a better sense of who you are beyond your application. Remember, while personal references don’t replace formal checks, they can absolutely tip the scales in your favor, especially in a competitive rental market. 

When they call, they might ask questions like: How long have you known the applicant? Can you describe the applicant’s character and reliability? Would you feel comfortable having them as a neighbor? 

How to ask your former landlord for a reference letter

If you’ve rented before and had a positive relationship with your landlord, it can be a good idea to ask for a former landlord reference letter. This is considered a professional reference. Here’s how to ask a former landlord for a reference letter: 

Reach out early

 No matter your relationship with them, you want to provide as much notice as possible. No one likes to be rushed, and the extra time gives them room to write something thoughtful. 

Be specific

You’ll want to make sure you mention the property you're applying for and what you’d love them to highlight, like your history of on-time rent payments, your care for the unit, or your positive interactions with neighbors.

Make it easy

Don’t have your landlord struggle with what to put down; it can make it harder for them to write something well and in time. Provide a template or bullet points they can use to draft the letter. The easier you make the task, the more likely you are to get a glowing reference.

For example:

Say thank you

No matter the outcome, show your appreciation. Gratitude goes a long way and keeps the door open for future help.

How do you submit a rental reference? 

In most cases, you’ll either submit an apartment reference letter by uploading it alongside your digital rental application or giving a hard copy to the landlord. Alternately, you may be asked to provide contact information so your landlord can call or email your references directly. If that’s the case, make sure to give your references a heads-up that they might be contacted. 

Always keep copies of your apartment reference letters. That way, you can quickly and easily attach them anytime you apply to a new place. Ready to put your references to good use? Remember, you can apply for rentals online easily through Zillow and make your apartment search faster and less stressful!