Landlord reference request letter

A reference from a previous landlord is one of the strongest things you can bring to a new application. Make it easy for them to say yes with a short, polite request. (On CertRent, references are even stronger — we confirm the reference actually owns the building.)

The template

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Subject: Quick reference request — [Your name], former tenant at [address]

Hi [Landlord name],

I hope you're well. I rented [unit/address] from [start date] to [end date], and I'm applying for a new apartment. Would you be willing to serve as a reference?

If it's easy for you, a short note confirming that I paid rent on time and took good care of the unit would mean a lot. A prospective landlord may reach out to you at [their contact], or you can reply to me directly and I'll pass it along.

Thank you so much — I really appreciated renting from you.

Best,
[Your name]
[Phone] · [Email]

Replace the [bracketed] parts with your details.

Want a reference a landlord can trust is genuine? Build a CertRent profile — we verify your reference owns the building.

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