What information are you willing to disclose to a new LL if they call for a reference

[Aiko C.]

I know employers are very stingy with saying anything about a previous employee. Seems you have almost nothing to gain by giving information and a lot to lose, if perhaps you are actually being called by the renter to record what you say about him/her.

Thx.

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

If someone has been a "Golden" Tenant, I won't hesitate to respond to verbal or written request. BUT, if there were issues with a Tenant, I require a written request and authorization with Tenant Signature that I compare to Rental Agreement signatures. Once received, I respond with the basic facts without extraneous detail: Tenant paid late X times; Tenant still owes a balance for (unpaid rent, or damages, or late fees...); House Rule violations; Housekeeping Issues; Did not provide proper notice of vacating; Unauthorized (occupants, animals, vehicles); Vacated early WITH notice and paid pro-rated rent through occupancy; and, of course, found the premises unsuitable and was allowed to vacate early.

The main point is, do NOT make your "reference" a personal attack, as that, could land you in court if the Tenant learns the details...regardless if accurate or not! This is a Business; act in a Businesslike manor at all times, with systems, clear policies, and by "keeping your cool" at all times.