Reference Check
What does it mean?
A reference check is a common part of the landlord's tenant selection process. The landlord contacts your previous landlords or other reference persons to verify that you have met your housing obligations — paid rent on time, not caused disturbances, and left the apartment in good condition. Strong references can be decisive in a competitive housing market.
As an applicant, you should have your references ready before searching for housing. Contact previous landlords in advance and ask if they can serve as a reference. If you are a first-time renter without a previous landlord, employers, teachers, or others who can attest to your reliability can serve as alternative references. Always be honest — landlords appreciate transparency.
Key Points
- Landlords often contact previous landlords as references
- Verifies that you paid rent on time and maintained the apartment
- Strong references give you an advantage in competitive markets
- Contact your references in advance and inform them
- First-time renters can use employers or other reference persons
Practical Tip
Prepare at least two references before you start searching for housing — ideally a previous landlord and an employer. Always ask your reference before sharing their contact details. On Bofrid, you can upload reference letters directly in your profile.