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What is a guarantor?

A guarantor agrees to pay your rent if you cannot do so. They act as a financial safety net for your landlord, providing additional security for your tenancy agreement. Guarantors are typically required for:

  • First-time renters
  • Students
  • People with a limited rental history
  • Individuals with lower income levels relative to the rent
  • Those with a poor credit history

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Who can be a guarantor?

A guarantor must be:

  • Over 18 years old (typically 21 or over)
  • A UK resident with a good credit history
  • Financially stable with sufficient income (typically earning at least 3 times the annual rent)
  • Usually, a homeowner or someone with a long-term address history
  • Commonly, a parent, close relative, or trusted friend

The guarantor process

When a guarantor is required for your tenancy, they will need to:

  • Complete a guarantor application form
  • Provide proof of identity and address
  • Undergo credit and reference checks
  • Sign a guarantor agreement that outlines their legal responsibilities

International students and tenants

If you're an international student or don't have a UK-based guarantor, don't worry. We can discuss alternative options, such as:

  • Paying rent in advance
  • Using a guarantor service
  • Our no-deposit option through our Residency membership

Guarantor responsibilities

Guarantors should understand that they are legally bound to cover:

  • Unpaid rent
  • Damages beyond normal wear and tear
  • Any other costs outlined in the tenancy agreement

This responsibility typically extends for the full fixed term of the tenancy and, in some cases, may continue if the tenancy becomes periodic.

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Guarantor FAQs

Not always. The need for a guarantor depends on your financial situation, rental history, and the property's rental value. If you have a strong credit history and sufficient income (typically 2.5-3 times the annual rent), you may not need a guarantor.

A guarantor's legal responsibility typically lasts for the duration of the fixed-term tenancy agreement. If the tenancy becomes periodic or is renewed, the guarantor may remain liable unless the agreement specifically states otherwise, or a new agreement is signed.

Once the tenancy agreement is signed, a guarantor cannot typically withdraw without the landlord's consent. The only exception is if the tenancy terms change significantly without the guarantor's knowledge or agreement.

If a guarantor fails to fulfil their obligations, the landlord may take legal action against both the tenant and guarantor to recover unpaid rent or costs. This could potentially affect the guarantor's credit rating and may result in county court judgments.

While it's preferred that guarantors are UK residents for ease of legal enforcement, some landlords may accept overseas guarantors. However, many will request alternative arrangements such as a larger rent payment in advance or the use of a UK-based guarantor service.

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