Securing a new apartment often requires demonstrating your reliability as a tenant. A strong apartment reference letter from a previous landlord or property manager can significantly boost your application. These letters provide valuable insights into your rental history, payment habits, and overall conduct as a tenant, giving prospective landlords confidence in your ability to be a responsible resident. This guide offers 17 sample letters to help you understand the essential elements and craft a compelling reference.
When requesting an apartment reference letter, be sure to provide your previous landlord with all necessary information, including the address and dates of your tenancy. It’s also helpful to remind them of any positive interactions or contributions you made as a tenant, such as consistently paying rent on time, maintaining the property in good condition, or being a quiet and respectful neighbor. Providing this context helps the landlord create a more detailed and impactful letter.
A great apartment reference letter typically includes several key components. It should verify your tenancy dates, confirm that you paid rent regularly and on time, and attest to your responsible and respectful behavior. Landlords also appreciate letters that highlight your cleanliness and maintenance habits, as well as your adherence to community rules. The stronger the positive attributes emphasized, the better your chances of approval for your next apartment.
17 Apartment Reference Letter Samples
Sample 1: Standard Reference Letter
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented apartment [Apartment Number] at [Address of Property] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] consistently paid rent on time and maintained the apartment in excellent condition. They were respectful of other tenants and followed all community rules. I received no complaints about their behavior.
I would highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant and believe they would be an asset to your property.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 2: Focus on On-Time Payments
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a reliable tenant. They resided at [Address of Property], apartment number [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date].
Notably, [Tenant’s Name] always paid their rent on time, without exception. This reliability was greatly appreciated. They also maintained the apartment in good order.
I am confident that [Tenant’s Name] would be a responsible and dependable tenant in your property.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 3: Emphasizing Cleanliness
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
This letter is to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant. They lived at [Address of Property] in apartment [Apartment Number] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
One of the most impressive aspects of [Tenant’s Name]’s tenancy was their exceptional cleanliness. The apartment was always kept in immaculate condition. They were also prompt with rent payments and respectful of neighbors.
I believe [Tenant’s Name] would be an excellent tenant for your property and I recommend them without hesitation.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 4: Highlighting Quiet and Respectful Behavior
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented apartment [Apartment Number] from me at [Address of Property] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
[Tenant’s Name] was a very quiet and respectful tenant. I never received any complaints from other residents regarding their noise levels or behavior. They consistently paid rent on time and kept their apartment clean.
I highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] and am confident they will be a considerate and responsible tenant in your building.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 5: For a Short Tenancy
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
This letter serves as a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who was a tenant at my property, [Address of Property] in unit [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date]. While their tenancy was relatively short, [Number] months, they were a good tenant.
During their time here, [Tenant’s Name] paid rent promptly and kept the apartment in acceptable condition. I experienced no issues with them.
I can recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a responsible tenant.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 6: Reference from a Property Management Company
[Date]
[Property Management Company Name]
[Property Management Company Address]
[Property Management Company Phone Number]
[Property Management Company Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
[Tenant’s Name] was a tenant at [Address of Property], managed by [Property Management Company Name], from [Start Date] to [End Date]. They resided in apartment [Apartment Number].
Our records indicate that [Tenant’s Name] consistently met their rental obligations and adhered to the terms of their lease agreement. There were no recorded complaints or issues during their tenancy.
We believe [Tenant’s Name] would make a suitable tenant for your property.
Sincerely,
[Name of Property Manager]
[Title of Property Manager]
Sample 7: Highlighting Problem-Solving Skills
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am pleased to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a prospective tenant. They rented apartment [Apartment Number] at [Address of Property] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
Beyond being a reliable tenant who always paid rent on time and maintained a clean apartment, [Tenant’s Name] was also a proactive problem-solver. For example, [Briefly describe a situation where the tenant proactively addressed an issue, e.g., “they noticed a minor leak and promptly reported it, preventing further damage.”]. This demonstrated responsibility and care for the property.
I highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] and believe they will be an excellent tenant in your building.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 8: A Simple and Direct Reference
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
[Tenant’s Name] was a tenant at [Address of Property], apartment [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date]. They were a good tenant.
I recommend them without reservation.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 9: Adding Details about Community Involvement
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] for tenancy at your property. They were a resident at [Address of Property], apartment [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date].
[Tenant’s Name] was always punctual with rent and maintained their apartment impeccably. Beyond this, they were also actively involved in our community, [Give an example, e.g., “assisting with the organization of building social events,” or “volunteering to help maintain the common areas.”]. This shows their commitment to contributing positively to their living environment.
I believe [Tenant’s Name] would be a great asset to your community and highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 10: Addressing a Minor Issue (If Applicable)
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who resided at [Address of Property], apartment [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date].
[Tenant’s Name] was generally a reliable tenant, paying rent on time and maintaining the apartment in good condition. There was a minor incident involving [Briefly and honestly describe the issue, e.g., “a late rent payment due to a bank error”], which was promptly resolved.
Overall, [Tenant’s Name] was a satisfactory tenant, and I believe they have learned from the past incident. I recommend them with this understanding.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 11: Emphasis on Respectful Communication
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am pleased to offer a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented apartment [Apartment Number] at [Address of Property] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
Throughout their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] demonstrated excellent communication skills. They were always responsive to my inquiries and respectfully communicated any concerns they had. This made managing the property much easier. They also consistently paid rent on time and kept the apartment clean.
I highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a responsible and communicative tenant.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 12: Reference for a Student Tenant
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a tenant. They rented apartment [Apartment Number] at [Address of Property] from [Start Date] to [End Date] while attending [Name of University/College].
[Tenant’s Name] proved to be a responsible and respectful tenant. They consistently paid rent on time, maintained the apartment in good order, and adhered to the community rules. I understand the challenges of managing a busy student life, and [Tenant’s Name] handled their responsibilities well.
I am confident that [Tenant’s Name] would be a good tenant in your property.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 13: Reference Focusing on Adherence to Lease Terms
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
This letter is to confirm that [Tenant’s Name] was a tenant at [Address of Property], apartment [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date].
During their tenancy, [Tenant’s Name] consistently adhered to all the terms and conditions of their lease agreement. This included timely rent payments, responsible use of the property, and compliance with community guidelines. I received no complaints regarding their behavior or actions.
I recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a reliable and compliant tenant.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 14: Reference Where Tenant Made Improvements (with Permission)
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am happy to provide a reference for [Tenant’s Name], who rented apartment [Apartment Number] at [Address of Property] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
[Tenant’s Name] was a fantastic tenant. They always paid rent on time and kept the apartment spotless. With my permission, they even made some minor improvements to the apartment, such as [Describe the improvement, e.g., “installing new shelving in the closet,” or “painting the accent wall a more modern color”]. These improvements enhanced the property’s value.
I highly recommend [Tenant’s Name] without any reservations.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 15: Addressing Pet Ownership (If Applicable and Positive)
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
This letter confirms that [Tenant’s Name] resided at [Address of Property], apartment [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date]. They were a tenant with a [Type of Pet, e.g., small dog, cat].
[Tenant’s Name] was a responsible pet owner. They ensured their pet was well-behaved, and I never received any complaints about noise or cleanliness related to their animal. They were also diligent about cleaning up after their pet. Beyond that, they paid rent promptly and maintained a clean apartment.
I recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a responsible tenant and pet owner.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 16: More Detailed and Personal Reference
[Date]
[Landlord’s Name]
[Landlord’s Address]
[Landlord’s Phone Number]
[Landlord’s Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend [Tenant’s Name] as a prospective tenant. I had the pleasure of having them as a resident at my property, [Address of Property], in apartment [Apartment Number] from [Start Date] to [End Date].
[Tenant’s Name] was an exemplary tenant in every respect. They consistently paid their rent on time, often well in advance of the due date. They maintained their apartment in immaculate condition and were always respectful of their neighbors. What truly set [Tenant’s Name] apart was their [Mention a specific positive attribute, e.g., “positive attitude and willingness to help others,” or ” proactive communication and attention to detail”].
I am confident that [Tenant’s Name] would be a valuable addition to your community, and I recommend them without hesitation. Please feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
[Landlord’s Signature]
[Landlord’s Typed Name]
Sample 17: If you didn’t manage the tenant, but know them well and can vouch for them
[Date]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Tenant’s Name]
[New Landlord’s Name/Address]
Dear [New Landlord’s Name],
I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] for tenancy at your property. While I was not their landlord, I am writing to recommend [Tenant’s Name] for tenancy at your property as a close friend. They were a resident at [Address of Property], apartment [Apartment Number], from [Start Date] to [End Date].
I know [Tenant’s Name] to be a reliable person with great integrity. As such, I’m confident that [Tenant’s Name] is an ideal tenant that will pay rent on time and ensure to take care of the apartment.
I believe [Tenant’s Name] would be a great asset to your community and highly recommend them.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Typed Name]
A well-crafted apartment reference letter is a powerful tool in your apartment search. These samples provide a solid foundation for requesting and understanding the content of a strong reference. Remember to personalize your request to your former landlord, providing them with relevant details to create the most impactful letter possible. Good luck with your apartment hunt!
