Does a previous landlord have the right to refuse giving a reference?

Answer 1

Yes, he can. Avoid this kind of delay by being smart when renting. Always insist on a walk through both when first renting and before returning the keys when you move out. Take pictures as you go through the home. Keep receipts of carpet cleaning or other repairs you had done. Alternatively, you can provide evidence of prompt payment and professional references of your character. If the landlord keeps your deposit or later refuses references, your records will see you through.

Answer 2

Anyone has the right to refuse to give a reference. If you were compelled by law to give such a reference, your First Amendment rights to free speech (and too not speak at all) would be violated.

However, the law protects you from the landlord giving a false reference. If a new landlord called a prior landlord and asked about your rent payment habits -- (was the tenant usual on time with rent payments, were any rent payments missed, etc?) -- and that landlord said "Yes, they were bad tenants who were always late on their rent", but you could prove your rent was paid in full and on time always, the landlord would be liable for defamation/slander.

Answer 3

Sure!