What referencing checks are required for tenants in the UK?

• Right-to-rent checks are a legal requirement for all tenants aged 18+.
• Affordability is assessed using income, employment and financial commitments.
• Credit checks highlight past issues such as CCJs, defaults or missed payments.
• Most agencies obtain a reference from a previous landlord or managing agent.
• Students or low-income applicants may require a UK-based guarantor.

Tenant referencing in the UK is designed to confirm that applicants are reliable, financially stable and legally permitted to rent property. The exact checks vary slightly by agent, but nearly all referencing includes the following:

• Right-to-rent checks: Mandatory ID verification to confirm UK residency status.
• Affordability assessment: Income should typically be 2.5–3× the monthly rent.
• Credit check: Highlights CCJs, arrears, defaults or signs of financial difficulty.
• Employment check: Employers confirm job role, salary and contract length.
• Landlord reference: Confirms rent was paid on time and property was looked after.

Some tenants—such as students, those new to full-time work or people relocating from abroad—may be asked to provide a guarantor or pay rent in advance.