How Do Estate Agents Check for References?

If you’re preparing to rent a property—whether you’re a student in Liverpool or a professional moving into your next home—you’ll likely be asked to provide references. But what exactly are estate agents checking for? How long does it take? And what happens if you don’t have a perfect rental history?

At Point Properties, we believe in making the rental process simple and transparent. Here’s everything you need to know about tenant referencing.

What Is Tenant Referencing?

Tenant referencing is a standard step in the rental process. It allows estate agents and landlords to confirm a prospective tenant’s identity, financial stability, and rental history before signing a tenancy agreement.

Think of it as a background check that helps ensure you're a suitable and responsible renter. It’s not meant to catch people out—it’s about protecting everyone involved and setting the stage for a smooth tenancy.

What Do Letting Agents Actually Check?

At Point Properties, we work with reputable referencing providers and follow industry best practices. Here’s what’s typically involved in a tenant reference check:

1. Proof of Identity & Right to Rent

By law, all tenants in the UK must prove they have the legal right to rent. You’ll need to provide documents such as:

• A valid passport or national ID
• A visa or residence permit (for international renters)

We use this to verify your identity and comply with government regulations. Learn more about Right to Rent checks here.

2. Employment & Income Verification

We check that your income is sufficient to cover the rent—typically, your gross monthly income should be around 2.5–3x the monthly rent.

You may be asked for:

• Recent payslips
• Employment contract
• Accountant’s letter (if self-employed)
• Student funding letters or bursary information

3. Previous Landlord Reference

If you’ve rented before, we’ll contact your previous landlord or agent to confirm:

• That rent was paid on time
• There were no major issues or disputes
• The property was returned in good condition

4. Credit Check

A soft credit check will look at your financial background—specifically, any history of missed payments, County Court Judgments (CCJs), or insolvency.

Note: This is not the same as applying for a mortgage. Many students or first-time renters have limited or no credit history—that’s totally normal and doesn’t automatically mean a failed reference.

5. Guarantor (if needed)

Students, young renters, or those without stable income may be asked to provide a UK-based guarantor—someone who agrees to cover the rent if you're unable to.

At Point Properties, we help guide tenants and guarantors through this step.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Most reference checks are completed within 2 to 5 working days—sometimes faster.

Here’s what can delay things:

• Missing or incomplete documentation
• Unresponsive referees (employers or landlords)
• Mistyped contact info or expired ID

We recommend preparing your documents in advance and staying in touch during the process. Our team is always here to help move things along smoothly.

What Happens If You Don’t Pass?

Not every tenant has a perfect rental history—and that’s okay. At Point Properties, we believe in working with people, not just paperwork.

If your reference comes back with concerns, we may:

• Request a guarantor
• Offer the option to pay rent in advance
• Recommend a joint tenancy if you’re applying with housemates

In most cases, there’s a solution. Our goal is to support responsible tenants and help them secure great homes in Liverpool.

Letting Agents in Liverpool: How Point Properties Supports You

Renting in Liverpool? You’re in good hands. At Point Properties, we make the referencing process clear, supportive, and fast.

We’ve helped thousands of:

• Students renting for the first time
• Professionals relocating to the city
• Families looking for longer-term stability

Our referencing team is here to walk you through the process, answer questions, and ensure you feel confident every step of the way.

Browse available properties to get started on your next home.

Tenant referencing is nothing to fear. It’s simply a way to ensure that landlords, letting agents, and tenants are all starting off on the right foot. With the right documents - and the right support - it’s a quick, straightforward process.

At Point Properties, we’re here to make your rental journey easy and stress-free. Whether you’re new to renting or just new to Liverpool, we’ll help you navigate every step.

Start today - browse our available properties.