A friend has asked you for a character reference, for a job, a flat or something else. Say how you know them and what they are like, add a couple of real examples, and the builder writes the letter. Free to copy, download as Word or print.
What makes a good reference for a friend
Say how long you have known them and how: "as a close friend since university".
Pick two or three qualities that matter for what they are applying for.
Back each one up with something you have seen them do.
Offer to be contacted, with a phone number or email.
Be honest
The person reading it knows you are a friend, so specific examples count for more than praise. Only write what you know to be true: you may be contacted to confirm it.
If it is for a job, choose "A job" above; for renting a home, choose "Renting a home": the letter changes to suit.
Character reference for a friend examples
Character reference for a friend
Known for ten years, with two real examples.
21 October 2026
Dear Sir or Madam,
Character reference for James Carter
My name is Sophie Turner. I have known James Carter for 10 years, as a close friend since university.
In that time I have found James to be kind, reliable and trustworthy.
When my father was ill, she drove me to the hospital every weekend for three months. She has looked after our house and our dog whenever we have been away.
I am happy to recommend James. I am happy to be contacted on 07700 900123 if anything in this letter needs confirming.
Yours faithfully,
Sophie Turner
Character reference for a friend renting a home
For a landlord or letting agent.
21 October 2026
Dear Sir or Madam,
Character reference for James Carter
My name is Sophie Turner. I have known James Carter for 10 years, as a close friend since university.
I understand that James is applying to rent a two-bedroom flat in Headingley, and I am happy to give a character reference.
In that time I have found James to be responsible, trustworthy and respectful.
She has rented the same flat for five years and her landlord has always returned her deposit in full. She looked after our house for a month last summer and left it spotless.
I am confident James would be a reliable and considerate tenant. I am happy to be contacted on 07700 900123 if anything in this letter needs confirming.
Yours faithfully,
Sophie Turner
Questions people ask
What should I say in a character reference for a friend?
How long you have known them and how, two or three of their best qualities, a real example of each, and that you are happy to be contacted.
Can a friend give a character reference for a job?
Yes. Employers usually want a reference from a previous employer too, but a character reference from a friend can help, especially for a first job.
How long should it be?
One page is plenty. Three or four short paragraphs read better than a long letter.
Do I need to sign it?
If you print it, sign it. If you email it, your name and contact details at the end are enough.
More letters for work
Resignation letter: Notice to leave, with your last working day worked out.
Retirement letter: Formal notice that you're retiring, with your last day worked out.
Character reference: For a job, a tenancy or court, written from real examples.
Job offer letters: Accept, decline or ask for more, with your resign-by date.
Reference letters: Ask someone to be your referee, or write a reference.