The Tenant Consent to Background and Reference Check is a legal form that allows a landlord to request background and reference information about a prospective tenant. By signing this consent form, a tenant grants permission for the landlord to conduct checks on their criminal history and to contact references provided in the rental application. This form is essential for landlords to assess the suitability of a tenant before entering into a rental agreement, ensuring that they make informed decisions based on available background information.
This form should be used when a tenant applies to rent a property and the landlord requires verification of the tenant's background and references. It is particularly important in situations where the landlord wants to ensure the safety and integrity of their rental property and current tenants. This consent is typically sought after a rental application is submitted but before a lease agreement is finalized.
This form does not typically require notarization unless specified by local law. Tenants can submit it directly to the landlord following completion.
Our built-in tools help you complete, sign, share, and store your documents in one place.
Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.
Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.
Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.
If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.
We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.

Make edits, fill in missing information, and update formatting in US Legal Forms—just like you would in MS Word.

Download a copy, print it, send it by email, or mail it via USPS—whatever works best for your next step.

Sign and collect signatures with our SignNow integration. Send to multiple recipients, set reminders, and more. Go Premium to unlock E-Sign.

If this form requires notarization, complete it online through a secure video call—no need to meet a notary in person or wait for an appointment.

We protect your documents and personal data by following strict security and privacy standards.
Request an Application. Start by having every prospective tenant complete an application. Run a Credit Check. Run a Background Check. Contact the Previous Landlords. Contact the Tenant's Employer. Interview the Tenant.
Landlord referencing This involves getting in touch with the tenant's previous landlord to find out how they behaved as a tenant. They can tell you if the tenant paid rent on time, if they treated the property with respect and any other information that might influence the decision.
A. A courteous introduction (e.g. Dear ______ or To whom it may concern) b. A statement of intent (e.g. I am writing this letter to recommend _____ as a tenant) c. A closing sentiment (e.g. Kind Regards or Sincerely)
Stick to the Facts Many landlords have heard rumors that they can't give tenants a bad reference. This is not true, and if there are definite, verifiable facts that pertain to a particular tenant, you have a responsibility to let other prospective landlords know.
Landlords should absolutely request a reference if the applicant has a rental history. Our policy is a credit check, background check, employment/financials verification, and a landlord reference. It's important to know if you're getting a quality tenant and all of the above checks help create a fuller picture.
References from past landlords may indicate how an applicant would occupy your property, and this information could help you avoid a bad outcome such as late rent payments, property damage, complaints from neighbors, or an eviction. The eviction process is time-consuming and costly.
Rest assured there are no privacy laws limiting what a landlord can or can't disclose about a previous tenant. You can say anything you wish. However, our advice is to stick to the facts and only give information that you can support with written proof so that your former tenants won't accuse you of slander.
Rental references, or referrals, are votes of confidence from people who know you in a personal, financial, educational, professional, or prior rental experience setting. Having a few qualified people who can vouch for you is one of the things that could help ensure a landlord chooses you.
Landlords will collect rental references from interested renters via a rental application. One thing that is commonly found on rental applications is the request for personal, or character, references. As a landlord, you want to do a comprehensive background check on the tenant which includes calling tenant references.