References are always required in order to secure a tenancy. We process ours through Vouch. Please be aware that no tenancy will be granted until satisfactory references have been received and approved.
Each person relating to the tenancy will be required to fill in a reference form and be referenced.
Additionally, and depending on your personal circumstances, the following will also be required:
Identification
1. All applicants, including guarantors (where applicable), will be required to provide a current Passport or Birth Certificate in combination with a National Insurance Number and photographic identification which can include a Driving Licence or National Identity Card. Non EU applicants will be required to provide a copy of their Biometric Residence Permit or current Visa, together with their Passport containing a UK immigration stamp. Further referencing requirements are as follows:
Employed
2. Proof of residency, to include one of the following utility bills and no older than 3 months prior to the commencement date of the tenancy:- gas, electric, water, telephone landline bill (not mobile), most recent council tax bill.
If you are employed, you will need to provide your most recent three months wage slips, or a letter on headed paper from the Personnel/Human Resources Department of your employer confirming your address, start date of your employment and current salary. Please note that this letter must be signed and dated by the Payroll Department or the Financial Director and contain the printed name of the signatory. We cannot accept emails.
A previous landlord’s reference, if applicable (we will obtain this on your behalf).
Self Employed
Identification, 1 & 2 above and a minimum of 3 years filed accounts. If the applicant has been self employed for less than three years they may require a guarantor and authenticated self assessment tax calculation forms from HMRC (These are known as SA302 or SA100 forms). Alternatively a letter from your accountant confirming drawings, and start date of the business may prove acceptable.
Housing Allowance
Identification (1 and 2 above) pay slips will be required if a tenant works part-time AND a guarantor. Plus evidence from housing benefit confirming that your claim is progressing, or has been accepted.
Student
Identification and 1, 2 and 3 (if applicable) above, and a guarantor.
Guarantor
Identification together with 1, 2.