References - Landlord Forum thread

References by Michael on June 8, 2012 @20:54

We are terminating the lease for a tenant. During converstations with them, they have stated that they would like a reference from us. I don't mind providing one for them, but I also don't want to mislead thier future landlord about some of the problems that we have had with them. What can you legally say if the tenant wants a reference from you for another landlord?

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Re: References by Micah on June 8, 2012 @21:13	[ Reply ]

I have the potential LL send me a list of questions with a copy of the information release form from the tenant. I answer the questions asked.

Re: References by Jake on June 8, 2012 @23:12	[ Reply ]

"What can you legally say if the tenant wants a reference from you for another landlord?" First, make sure your tenant is all the way out. You may say that you can not provide a full reference until they are fully gone. If they want a good reference explain that it will depend on how orderly they move out. Then you can tell anyone who calls after the move that you never give references. You never know who is calling. Is it the tenant's friends or the tenant's lawyer. You just do not know. Be especially sure you do not provide any comments in writing about your tenants.

Re: References

Re: References by OK-LL on June 9, 2012 @02:07	[ Reply ]

You may give any information which you can support with records; try to avoid giving your opinion rather than facts.

Re: References by NY LL on June 10, 2012 @02:03	[ Reply ]

When I accepted my last tenant, I asked for references..it was just a name and phone number, so I just called them up and asked them about the tenant and they said wonderful things about my current tenant (who was indeed wonderful). When my current tenant move out, I will happily provide a reference for her. I usually just give her my phone number and tell her that any prospective LL can contact me for additional information. I would not provide a letter be ause that's just opening a can of worms.