I’m in need of some advice from seasoned investors. I’m in Oklahoma and have two rentals. I gave a professional, honest, reference for a past tenant via turbo tenant. The landlord told the tenant what I said and the tenant called me freaking out. Is this legal? I know it’s not ethical but didn’t know if it was legal. Thank you in advance.
Rental Property Investor · Edmond, OK · Member since 2017 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
6y
This is why we are seeing a lot of people no longer giving references for tenants. Our "reference" for past tenants are lease dates and rent amount, whether tenant paid rent on time, gave appropriate notice prior to moving out and/or received their security deposit back. Anything else could be considered an opinion and I don't want to be involved in "opinions."
Chandler, AZ · Member since 2020 · 295 posts · 272 votes
6y
Its possibly in poor taste , but sure its legal. Take this example: Maybe you said something untrue about the tenant. Now can they come after you for libel. Be careful what you post online as there are plenty of platforms where seemingly private posts became public.
@Ramona H. They could have been verifying what you said. Stick to the facts-don't all have to be positive, but be honest. Either tell the former tenant that what you said was confidential and you won't confirm any information or lie and say you didn't give them a reference.
Rental Property Investor · Concord, GA · Member since 2015 · 3k+ posts · 3k+ votes
6y
When I get a tenant reference from a previous landlord, I just ask two questions; 1. Was the tenant timely with their rent? 2. Would you rent to them again?
Rental Property Investor · Edmond, OK · Member since 2017 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
6y
This is why we are seeing a lot of people no longer giving references for tenants. Our "reference" for past tenants are lease dates and rent amount, whether tenant paid rent on time, gave appropriate notice prior to moving out and/or received their security deposit back. Anything else could be considered an opinion and I don't want to be involved in "opinions."