Character reference
Character references are used to vouch for you as a person and a potential tenant. Character references for rental applications often highlight parts of your personality that might appeal to a landlord (for example: responsible, reliable, clean, courteous, respectful). Your referee could be a mentor, teacher, family friend, coach, etc. The referee will need to sign the letter, and make changes to the wording of the letter as needed. See also Factsheet 2: Starting a tenancy.
Copy and paste the template letter below or download a copy from the link above. Remember to substitute your details for the details contained in [square brackets].
[Date]
To whom it may concern,
RE: [Renter name] - Character reference
[Renter name] asked me to write a character reference for them in support of their rental application. I have known [renter name] for [number of months/years] as a [in what capacity e.g. member of the football team I coached].
I know [renter name] to be a [describe positive character traits e.g. a friendly, kind person who gets along well with others]. [[Renter name] was committed to improving themselves and working together to achieve our team’s goals. They were a responsible and reliable team player I knew I could count on].
[Include other relevant information here e.g. I am aware that [renter name] has had a goal of living independently for some time. [Renter name] worked at a part-time job for many years and has been able to put away savings to make this goal possible. This shows me that [renter name] is financially responsible and is capable of taking on a lease.]
If you need any further information, please contact me on [referee’s phone number].
Yours sincerely,
[SIGNATURE]
[Referee’s name]
[Referee’s job title e.g. ‘Western Sydney Football Club U21s Coach’]
[Referee’s address]
[Referee’s phone number]
