With Section 21 now abolished, choosing the right tenant from the outset has become even more important for landlords. If problems arise during a tenancy, regaining possession now relies on a valid Section 8 ground, supported by the right evidence and records. That makes thorough tenant referencing one of the best ways to reduce risk before a tenancy even begins.
What should tenant referencing include?
A good referencing process should look at more than just whether someone says they can afford the rent.
It should include:
- Credit history
- Income and affordability
- Employment status
- Previous landlord references
- Right to Rent checks
Each of these helps build a clearer picture of the applicant and whether the tenancy is likely to be sustainable.
Affordability matters
One of the most important checks is making sure the tenant can comfortably afford the rent. This should be supported by evidence such as payslips, bank statements or suitable documents for self-employed applicants. It is always better to confirm the figures properly at the start than deal with affordability problems later.
Previous landlord references can tell you a lot
A previous landlord reference can provide useful information about how a tenant has managed an earlier tenancy.
Did they pay the rent on time?
Did they look after the property?
Did the tenancy end without problems?
These checks can help landlords make a more informed decision.
Right to Rent checks still apply
Every adult tenant must have their Right to Rent checked before the tenancy begins. Where somebody has a time-limited Right to Rent, further checks may also be required during the tenancy.
Tenant selection must be fair
Landlords must also make sure they assess applicants fairly and consistently. Decisions should be based on genuine affordability, referencing and suitability rather than assumptions about someone’s circumstances.
The same criteria should be applied to every applicant.
Getting the choice wrong can be costly
Rent arrears, legal action, property damage and possession proceedings can all become costly and time-consuming. Spending time on thorough referencing at the start of a tenancy can help reduce the chances of these problems happening later.
Let us take care of it
If you manage your own rental property and would like help finding and referencing the right tenant, speak to the Richard Kendall Estate Agent rental team. We can guide you through the process and make sure the correct checks are carried out before a tenancy begins. And if your property is already fully managed by Richard Kendall, there is no need to worry. As always, our rental team will handle the tenant referencing, Right to Rent checks and tenancy requirements for you.
