The Bottom Line
- Referencing is a risk-check: identity + Right to Rent + affordability + past behaviour (references) + sometimes a credit file search.
- If you are new to the UK, you may not show on a soft credit search (e.g., not on the electoral roll). That is common—and fixable with a stronger evidence pack.
- Your goal is to make the agent’s “yes” easy: one PDF, clean file naming, and a two-line summary of your employment and affordability.
What most agents check (in plain English)
Most referencing is predictable. They check: (1) you are a real person, (2) you are allowed to rent, (3) you can pay the rent, and (4) you have not been a “problem tenant.” The mistake is sending random screenshots across WhatsApp. Treat it like a mini due diligence pack.
Important detail: fees
In England, landlords/agents cannot charge you for credit checks or other referencing checks. If someone asks for “referencing fees,” pause and verify what you are being asked for.
How to pass referencing when you are new to the UK
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1) Lead with affordability (do the maths for them)
Write one line: “Annual salary: £X; rent: £Y/month; affordability ratio: Y×12 ÷ X.” Agents want a quick yes/no.
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2) Use an employer letter (NHS Trust letters are powerful)
A signed offer letter/contract confirming role, start date, and salary often substitutes for “history.” Add HR contact details.
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3) Provide bank statements that show stability
If you have recent salary credits, highlight them. If you are newly arrived, provide proof of savings (statement screenshot + PDF export where possible).
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4) References: choose speed over prestige
A prior landlord who replies in 2 hours beats a “famous” consultant who replies in 2 weeks. Provide correct email + phone.
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5) If credit checks fail: ask why (politely) and offer an alternative pack
If you “fail” a credit check, request the reason and offer stronger evidence: employer letter + savings + guarantor (if you have one).
The “Referencing Pack” (agent-ready)
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Copy-paste message: referencing follow-up
Hi [Name] — just checking if anything is outstanding for referencing. I’ve attached a single “Referencing Pack” PDF (Right to Rent + ID + contract + affordability evidence). If any item needs to be in a different format, tell me what you need and I’ll resend within the hour. Thanks — Dr [Name].
Practice
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