Guarantor

A guarantor agrees to cover your rent if you cannot pay. Here is what it means, when landlords ask for one, and what a guarantor is legally responsible for.

A guarantor is a person who agrees to cover your rent if you cannot pay it. Landlords and letting agents sometimes ask for one when a tenant does not meet the standard income requirements, has a limited credit history, or is renting for the first time. Students are often asked to provide a guarantor, usually a parent or close family member.

A guarantor is legally bound by the tenancy agreement and can be pursued for unpaid rent or damage costs if the tenant defaults. Before agreeing to act as a guarantor, it is worth understanding exactly what liability you are taking on, as some agreements hold the guarantor responsible for the full tenancy period rather than just a single missed payment.

Not all landlords require a guarantor. If you cannot provide one, some will accept a larger upfront payment or a rent-in-advance arrangement as an alternative, though the rules around deposits are capped under the Renters' Rights Act.

Do I need a guarantor to rent? Not always. Landlords typically ask for a guarantor when a tenant does not meet standard income requirements, has no rental history, or is a student. If you have a good credit history and sufficient income, most landlords will not require one.

What happens if my guarantor refuses to pay? The landlord can take legal action against your guarantor to recover unpaid rent or damage costs. A guarantor who signs the agreement is legally bound by it for the duration specified, which may cover the full tenancy.

Can a guarantor be based outside the UK? Some landlords accept overseas guarantors but many do not, as enforcing a guarantee against someone abroad is significantly more difficult. If your guarantor is outside the UK, check with the landlord or agent before proceeding.