Why Your Rental Application Was Declined - 7 Common Reasons (And How to Fix Them)

Been declined for a rental property in Selby or Goole? Jigsaw Letting explains the 7 most common reasons rental applications are rejected and how to improve your chances.

Looking to rent in Selby or Goole but had your application turned down?

You’re not the only one. At Jigsaw Letting, we support hundreds of local tenants every year and many are unsure why their rental applications have been rejected.

I thought I had everything in order — why was I declined for the property?

Whether you're renting in Selby, Goole, or surrounding areas like Howden, Hemingbrough, or Brayton, there are a few common reasons this happens and most of them are avoidable.

Below, we explain the top 7 reasons rental applications are declined, plus how Jigsaw Letting can help you turn things around.

Top 7 Reasons Tenants Are Refused a Rental Property in Selby or Goole

1. Bad Credit History

Most landlords request a credit check during referencing. If you have missed payments, defaults, or County Court Judgements (CCJs), this may raise concerns.

If you live in the Selby or Goole area and have poor credit, speak to Jigsaw Letting first. We can explore solutions like guarantors or alternative properties that may be more flexible.

2. Not Enough Income

In most cases, tenants must earn 3 times the monthly rent. If your income doesn't meet this threshold, your application may be declined.

Submit recent payslips or bank statements. If you’re new to the area for work, such as roles at Drax, Goole Business Park, or local schools, we can help you prepare documents that reassure landlords.

3. Unverified Employment

If your employment can't be verified or if you're on a short-term or casual contract, this can delay or halt your application.

Jigsaw Letting understands the local job market and often works with self-employed tenants, contractors, and those relocating. Talk to us as we may still be able to help.

4. Incomplete Application or Missing Documents

Forgot to include proof of address? No employer reference? These gaps can stall the entire process.

Our team at Jigsaw Letting provides every applicant with a clear checklist. We’re here to guide you step-by-step and ensure you don’t miss a thing.

5. Negative Landlord References

Issues like late payments, unauthorised pets, or property damage from a previous tenancy will show up and landlords take these seriously.

Even if you’ve had problems in the past, let us know. At Jigsaw Letting, we treat each application fairly and confidentially.

6. Undisclosed Pets

Not every property in Selby or Goole allows pets. If you fail to declare a pet upfront, your application could be cancelled.

Be honest. We regularly list pet-friendly rentals in Selby and Goole, and we’ll help you find one that suits your whole household.

7. Too Many Occupants

Every home has a legal occupancy limit. Applying with too many people can breach HMO regulations or tenancy terms.

If you’re a family or house-sharing, we’ll find a property that fits your household size, legally and comfortably.

Rejected in Selby or Goole? Don’t Panic — Talk to Jigsaw Letting

If you’ve recently been turned down for a property, the best next step is to speak to a local letting agent you can trust.

At Jigsaw Letting, we work closely with landlords across Selby, Goole, and surrounding villages to match tenants to suitable properties — even if they’ve struggled to get accepted elsewhere.

We know the local market, we understand the referencing process, and we’re here to support every step of your tenant journey.

Looking for a Property to Rent in Selby or Goole?

We manage a wide range of rental properties in Selby and Goole, including houses, flats, and pet-friendly homes. Whether you're a first-time renter, a relocating professional, or a growing family — we’re here to help.

Browse our available properties here on our website:

Need help applying? Call us directly or use our online enquiry form to get started.

Don’t let a declined application stop you from finding your perfect home. At Jigsaw Letting, our friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to help you overcome any rental hurdle — with real advice and local insight.

We’re your go-to letting agent in Selby, Goole, and beyond.

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