Before granting a new tenancy, every landlord is required to complete a series of checks to ensure the tenant is genuine, reliable, and financially able to pay the rent. 

Identification Verification Checks

The first step in tenant referencing is confirming the tenant’s identity. Landlords should request official documents such as a passport or drivers licence to verify the identity of the proposed tenant and check these.  

Right to Rent Checks 

It is a legal requirement for landlords in England to perform Right to Rent checks for all adult occupiers before the tenancy begins. Landlords must keep adequate records of these checks, and where required, carry out follow up checks. Failure to perform a Right to Rent check can result in substantial financial penalties, or most serious cases, imprisonment.

Please see our dedicated Information page on Right to Rent.

Credit Checks

Checking a tenant’s credit history gives landlords insight into their financial background, including County Court Judgements or insolvency issues. It is important for landlords to obtain consent from the tenant before running a credit check. Under The Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords and letting agents are prohibited from charging tenants the cost of referencing. 

Please see Tenant Fees Act 2019 (England)  for more information. 

Proof of Income and Employment Checks

To confirm that a tenant has the means to pay the monthly rent, landlords can Request for Employer Reference for New Tenant this usually verifies job title, employment status, and salary. 

Previous Landlord Reference

Finally, obtaining a Request for Reference from Previous Residential Landlord can provide valuable information about the tenant’s conduct, such as whether the rent was paid on time and if tenancy obligations were met. 

By completing these checks, landlords can minimise the risk of arrears and safeguard their property.  Landlords should use the Application Form for a Residential Tenancy when assessing a new tenants suitability for the proposed tenancy.