What references are required, and what will I need to provide?

Posted on: 5 August 2025

Tenant Referencing Requirements – What You Need to Know

To ensure all tenancies are legally compliant and appropriately assessed, CGT Lettings uses Vouch, a trusted referencing partner, to process all tenant applications.

No tenancy will be granted until satisfactory references have been received and approved.

All applicants—including guarantors—will be required to complete the reference process individually. References are reviewed in line with the latest Right to Rent legislation and industry standards.

What Will Be Required?

1. Identification (Right to Rent Compliance)

All applicants and guarantors must provide:

  • A valid passport or birth certificate (with a National Insurance number)

  • Photographic ID such as a driving licence or national identity card

  • Non-UK/Irish applicants must also provide:

    • A valid visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)

    • A passport showing valid UK entry clearance or immigration status

These checks will be completed in accordance with Right to Rent guidance issued by the Home Office.

2. Proof of Address (All Applicants)

You will need to provide one of the following, dated within the last 3 months:

  • Gas, electric, or water bill

  • Landline telephone bill (not mobile)

  • Council tax bill (most recent)

  • Official letter from HMRC or your bank

3. Employment Status Documentation

If Employed:

  • Last 3 months’ payslips

  • Or a signed letter on company-headed paper from your HR or payroll team confirming:

    • Job title, start date, salary, and address

    • Signed and dated, including the printed name of the signatory

    • Emails are not accepted

If Self-Employed:

  • Identification and proof of address as above

  • Minimum 3 years of filed accounts or

  • SA302 / SA100 tax forms from HMRC

  • Or a letter from your accountant confirming:

    • Business start date and annual drawings

Applicants with less than 3 years of trading may require a guarantor.

If in Receipt of Housing Allowance / Benefits:

  • Identification and proof of address

  • Most recent payslips if working part-time

  • A suitable guarantor

  • Evidence from the relevant authority confirming:

    • Your housing benefit claim is in progress or has been accepted

If a Student:

  • Identification and proof of address

  • A guarantor will be required

  • Confirmation of student status may be requested

Guarantors:

  • Must provide ID and proof of address as listed above

  • Must also pass a credit and affordability check via Vouch

Need Help?

We’re here to support you through every step of the application. Your local CGT Lettings branch can answer questions about referencing and help ensure your paperwork is complete and correct.

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