Who can be a guarantor for renting?

A guarantor is usually a family member over the age of 18.
We can help you understand what being a guarantor means.

What is a guarantor?

A guarantor is a person who ‘guarantees’ they’ll pay the rent if the tenant isn’t able to pay. They’ll also cover any damage to the property. If a guarantor doesn’t cover outstanding rent or damage costs, they could be taken to court.

Landlords may ask for a guarantor as peace of mind that the rent will be paid for the length of the contract.

When might you be asked to provide a guarantor?

There are lots of different situations where you might need to have a guarantor.

Little to no credit history

If you’re a young adult with little or no borrowing history, there’s not much for a landlord to base a decision on.

Poor credit history

If you’ve missed any repayments, or bills or had a County Court Judgement against you, it might be harder to rent without a guarantor.

Unemployed or low income

If you have a lower income or receive Universal Credit, a landlord may need a guarantor in case you fall into financial difficulty.

New to the UK

To have a credit check, you’ll need to have lived in the country long enough to have a credit history. Without this, a landlord might need a guarantor before agreeing to rent to you.

You’re a first-time renter

If you’re renting for the first time, and have no references, you may need a guarantor. If your income is high though, you may not need one.

Things for your guarantor to know

Guarantors must be over 18, have a good credit history and have a certain amount of savings or income. They must also be a UK resident who has known you for at least two years and can vouch for your application. Usually, a close relative or a friend.

Your guarantor will need to be in a strong financial situation as they’ll be responsible for paying the rent, if the tenant isn't able to pay. They will also have to pay for any damage to the property.
 

What does a guarantor need to provide?

Guarantors may need to give information to a landlord or letting agency to show they can take on the responsibility of being a guarantor:

  • Proof of identity, like a passport or driving licence.
  • There will be credit checks that they need to pass. This looks at their past borrowing and gives an indication of how financially stable they are.
  • Applicants will have to show wage slips or proof of income if retired.

Guarantor responsibilities

Your guarantor will have to sign a contract with the letting agent or landlord. This will set out the terms of the guarantor and their responsibilities to the property.

Most contracts will state that a guarantor is liable to cover any unpaid rent for the length of the tenancy. Plus, any fines for non-payment or damages.

Make sure both you and your guarantor are fully aware of the terms of the contract. If you’re not sure about any of the conditions, speak to the landlord or the letting agent before you sign.

Check the contract terms thoroughly

Make sure you check the terms of the contract in detail. Most guarantor agreements will end once the tenancy has ended.

Your contract should say when the guarantor’s responsibilities will end. If there is rent owing, the landlord can refuse to end the agreement.

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Whether you’re moving into your own place or moving into a shared rental, our tips and advice will help the next steps be stress free so you can get on with making it yours.

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Renting made easy

Whether you’re moving into your own place or moving into a shared rental, our tips and advice will help the next steps be stress free so you can get on with making it yours.

Renting help and support