Rental Application Packet
Cover letter
Include a brief cover letter that gives an overview of your household. Mention your interest in the rental and your ability to be a responsible tenant. If you have a credit report or letter of guarantee, note it here.
Rental resume
Your rental resume provides an opportunity to expand on what is included in your application and credit report. Use our sample rental resume as a guide for creating your own. If you are renting with a pet, you can also include a pet resume (PDF).
Sample Rental Resume (PDF)
Rental application
The landlord may provide you with an application form, but having your information in one place will save time and show that you are prepared. Download our rental application and fill it out completely. Instructions are on the second page of the form.
Rental Application (PDF)
Housing reference release
Need a rental reference? Current and former residents of university housing can have the university serve as a rental reference by taking the following steps:
Step 1: Authorize Student Housing Services to provide a reference on your behalf by submitting your Rental Reference Release under “Releases” in the Housing Portal.
Step 2: Download and fill out the “How to Check Rental References” form below to include in your rental application packet. This gives potential landlords the information they need to check your on-campus references.
How to Check Rental References (PDF)
Step 3: Ask your potential landlord to email Student Housing Services for information related to your on-campus rental payment history.
Email: housing@ucsc.edu
Rental references
In addition to the Housing Reference Release described above, get written references from a current or previous employer if possible, and include them in your packet. This can help show prospective landlords that you are personally and financially responsible.
Renters Workshop certificate
Many landlords and property managers accept this certificate as a type of “reference”, as it shows you completed the training and are a knowledgeable prospective tenant. Complete the online Renters Workshop and quiz to receive your certificate.
Credit report
Confidential: provide on request
Get a credit report on yourself. No credit is better than bad credit so even a credit report with no history is of some value. Free credit reports are available at annualcreditreport.com. Many landlords and most professional property managers will want to use the credit reporting company they are accustomed to, but having one ready may get you through the “first cut.” Make note in your cover letter that you have one available but do not include it in the packet.
Letter of guarantee
Confidential: provide on request
Many landlords who rent to students require a co-guarantor for the rent. Mention in your cover letter that you will provide one upon request and have the form filled out and ready to go, but only give to landlords seriously considering your application.
Letter of Guarantee (PDF)