A guarantor is someone, usually a parent or guardian, who agrees to cover the rent if the student cannot pay. Most student landlords ask for a UK based guarantor before a tenancy starts. It is a normal part of student renting and rarely called upon, but it is a real legal commitment, so it is worth understanding.
What a guarantor agrees to
As a guarantor you sign a legal agreement to pay the rent, and sometimes for damage beyond the deposit, if the student does not. Read whether you are responsible only for your own child's rent or, in a joint tenancy, for the whole house. A good landlord will offer an agreement limited to your own child's share.
Who can be a guarantor
A guarantor usually needs to:
- Be a UK resident over 18, often a homeowner or in steady work
- Be able to show proof of income or identity if asked
- Understand and sign the guarantor agreement
What if you cannot provide one
Not every family can provide a UK guarantor, and that should not shut you out of a house. Options include paying some rent in advance, or using a paid guarantor service. The most important thing is to talk to the landlord early and honestly. Because we let our houses directly, we can talk through what works rather than hiding behind a fixed policy.
How deposits are protected
There are two different payments, and they are protected in different ways. A holding deposit reserves the room and, under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, is capped at one week's rent. A tenancy deposit, taken when you sign, must by law be protected in a government backed scheme within 30 days, so your money is safe and there is a clear process if there is ever a dispute at the end of the year. Ask the landlord which scheme they use and to confirm it in writing.
We are a direct to landlord, family run service, and we are happy to answer parents' questions in person. Read more about how we work on our page for parents and guarantors.