I gave reference for friend who turned into tenant from hell - please advise!

krlyr

Sounding quite like harrassment to me!

Kittenonthekeys

Yes indeed.
And it has also occurred to me that if the LA had been doing its job properly and had additionally sought references from official sources at the outset (eg credit checks, previous landlord, etc) then would these official sources not be better placed to assist the LA in any enquiries, rather than me as a private individual?
Conversely if the LA did not make these official checks and mine was the only reference they sought, then imo they have been negligent.

chewmylegoff

Kittenonthekeys wrote: »

Yes indeed.
And it has also occurred to me that if the LA had been doing its job properly and had additionally sought references from official sources at the outset (eg credit checks, previous landlord, etc) then would these official sources not be better placed to assist the LA in any enquiries, rather than me as a private individual?
Conversely if the LA did not make these official checks and mine was the only reference they sought, then imo they have been negligent.

it doesn't really matter whether or not they made proper checks or did a good job of getting references (frankly a personal reference for a tenancy seems a bit pointless to me, why does a LL care whether or not you're nice, would seem more relevant to find out if you pay your rent), the bottom line is that this is nothing to do with you. the idea that they placed any significant reliance on your reference is laughable anyway.

if the police contact you asking for your assistance in tracking the person down because of allegations of e.g. criminal damage, then co-operate with them (i.e. give them the address, and answer any questions they have honestly.

otherwise, this isn't your problem, and it isn't your job to help the agent and landlord track down their customer.

Fire_Fox

Agree could be deemed harassment; even if you do not want to supply your friend's current address DO NOT lie to the agent or landlord.

Kittenonthekeys

Thanks - all noted; absolutely agree and will do!
In fact I almost wish the police would get in touch, as I'd like this very difficult & unpleasant situation to become a dim and distant memory!
Odd if they don't get the police involved though.....

Fire_Fox

I think .... the rent arrears are a civil case, the damage could be dealt with civil or criminal. Maybe they want to deal with the whole thing as a civil action, presumably the amount is too great for the small claims track tho.

Kittenonthekeys

Fire_Fox wrote: »

I think .... the rent arrears are a civil case, the damage could be dealt with civil or criminal. Maybe they want to deal with the whole thing as a civil action, presumably the amount is too great for the small claims track tho.

Can criminal damage be dealt with as a civil matter, then?

Yorkie1

Kittenonthekeys wrote: »

Can criminal damage be dealt with as a civil matter, then?

In the sense that compensation can be sought through the civil courts, yes.

A person can't be prosecuted for it unless through the criminal courts.