Cover letter (rental application)
A rental cover letter is a letter in which you introduce yourself to the landlord. It is also your chance to humanize your application. While credit checks and income references prove you can pay the rent, the cover letter proves you will look after the home and be a reliable neighbor.
It typically includes details about your employment, your lifestyle (e.g., "quiet professional," "non-smoker"), and who will be living in the property with you. If you would like some help, writing the perfect cover letter is very easy if you follow the steps in our Renting Fast Pass!
What to Include
- Employment Status: Your job title and stability, providing extra peace of mind beyond the standard reference.
- The "Why": Why you love this specific property or area (e.g., "It’s closer to my workplace" or "I grew up in this neighborhood").
- Transparency: If you have a pet, this is the place to mention it and provide a "pet CV" to reassure the landlord.
- Availability: When you are looking to move in and how long you intend to stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a cover letter legally required? No, it isn't a legal requirement, but in high-demand areas like London or Manchester, it is highly recommended. Agents often deal with dozens of identical-looking applications; a cover letter helps them remember yours.
- Should I mention my pet in the cover letter? Yes. Under the Renters’ Rights Act, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a pet, but being upfront and providing details about your pet’s behavior or previous references can build trust from the very start.
- Can I use a cover letter to negotiate? While you cannot "bid" higher than the advertised price anymore, you can use the cover letter to highlight your strengths, such as being able to move in on the landlord's preferred date or having a long-term interest in the property.