Is it normal for a landlord to

[ParsleyCake]

We're looking at renting a property from a private land lady and I think she wants to contact my work. Is this normal? She originally asked for proof of my employment and said a letter from my employer will do but accepted a photocopy of my contract. Now she's saying that she will not keep my personal info that she asked for copies of (bank statements, council tax bills, references), but will only hold onto my ID and employers contact details.


Why is this? Is she going to call my work and check I work there? Was my contract insufficient proof?

Just curious as I have never had this before. I have always rented privately and usually they only ask for references. I'm wondering if I came across as untrustworthy or something!!

Secondly, we agreed on a move in date a month from now, and she wants us to sign the lease on the day we move in. I don't like this at all as I have to give notice to my current landlord now and it feels like if we don't sign the contract there is no deal - this landlady could change her mind and leave us with nowhere to go. Is it weird if I can ask her if I can sign the lease at the same time as I pay the deposit?

[wowfudge]

I can't help on the employer's reference, but I can see no reason why you couldn't ask to sign the contract prior to the lease start date.

[kirinm]

When renting via an agent, my work have always been asked to confirm I work there.

[EssentialHummus]

Some (dodgy) tenants may download/order fake payslips from the internet. It's a "thing". I always call employers / ask the referencing company to do so.

[specialsubject]

be aware she also needs to see your passport and/or birth certificate, whatever is needed to prove that you have a right to be in the UK. Legal requirement.

this has to be done in person.

but yes, once all that has been done then you definitely want to be signing the lease. Both of you need committment.

[SauvignonPlonker]

When I self-managed, I always phoned the employer personally, to confirm salary, whether permanent etc. I have had tenants supply fake references before so it's essential to confirm what has been said. I also used to ask for 6 months of bank statements to demonstrate income in/out, utilities & council tax paid.

It may seem over-cautious, but bad tenants are extremely difficult & expensive to get rid of.