ONTARIO HOME INTEL · FREE LANDLORD TOOL
Ontario Landlord Reference Check Worksheet
Use this printable worksheet to verify a prospective tenant's rental references consistently. A reference check should supplement—not replace—a complete application, consent-based credit screening and a lawful, non-discriminatory assessment.
Applicant & Reference Details
Applicant nameRental address being applied forReference name / organizationPhone / emailPrevious rental addressDate contactedHow reference identity was independently verified
Questions to Ask a Previous Landlord
Notes
Consistency Check
Verify the Reference, Not Just the Answers
A reference supplied by an applicant may be genuine, outdated or difficult to verify. Where reasonable, independently confirm that the person or organization actually managed or owned the prior rental instead of relying solely on the contact information written on the application. Avoid collecting unnecessary personal information while doing so.
What a Reference Check Cannot Tell You
A previous landlord's opinion is only one data point. Personal impressions, vague statements and unverifiable allegations should not substitute for objective screening. Applicants may also have little or no rental history, and that absence should not automatically be treated negatively.
Human Rights & Privacy
Keep questions focused on legitimate tenancy matters and apply a consistent process. Do not use a reference call to seek information about protected characteristics or to circumvent Ontario human-rights requirements. Store notes securely and retain only information you legitimately need.
Next step: Use this worksheet alongside the Ontario Tenant Screening Checklist, Rental Application Checklist and Tenant Screening Services comparison.
Reference Check FAQ
Should I call every previous landlord?
A consistent process is more important than an arbitrary number. Decide what reference verification is reasonably relevant and apply your core approach consistently.
What if the applicant has no rental history?
Do not automatically treat a lack of rental history as negative. Consider other legitimate screening information in accordance with Ontario human-rights requirements.
Can I ask why the tenant moved?
Keep questions tied to the tenancy and avoid probing into personal circumstances or protected characteristics that are not relevant to the rental decision.
General information only: This worksheet is an organizational aid, not legal advice or an official government form. Screening and privacy obligations are fact-specific.