Finding a guarantor for renting in the UK typically involves asking a trusted family member or friend with good credit, stable income (usually earning at least 3 times the monthly rent annually), and ideally homeowner status to legally agree to cover your rent payments if you’re unable to pay, which is particularly important if you’re a student, first-time renter, have a low income, or lack UK rental history
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What is a guarantor & why do landlords ask for one?
So, what exactly is a guarantor? Think of them as your financial backup person. If you can’t pay your rent for whatever reason, your guarantor steps in to cover it. It’s a big commitment for them ā they’re essentially saying “I believe in this person so much that I’ll put my own money on the line if they can’t pay.”
Landlords ask for guarantors when they’re feeling a bit nervous about a tenant’s financial situation. Maybe you’re:
Just starting your first job
A uni student without a regular income
New to the UK without a rental history here
Going through a rough patch with your credit score
Working part-time or on a temporary contract
It doesn’t mean they think you’re unreliable ā it’s just their way of feeling secure about their investment. I get that it can feel a bit insulting, but try not to take it personally.
Who can be my guarantor?
Finding someone to be your guarantor can feel awkward ā after all, you’re asking someone to potentially pay thousands of pounds on your behalf! Most commonly, guarantors are:
Parents or close family members who want to help you out
Long-term friends who trust you completely
Sometimes an employer who knows you’re reliable
A partner or spouse (though some landlords prefer someone not living with you)
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Your guarantor typically needs to:
Be over 18 (obviously!)
Live in the UK (makes legal enforcement easier)
Have a decent credit history themselves
Earn enough to cover your rent (usually 3x your annual rent)
Sometimes own their own property (though not always)
I often hear the question: “Can my retired parents be guarantors?” The answer is yes! Being retired isn’t a barrier ā what matters is their financial situation. If your parents receive a stable pension and perhaps own their home outright, they might actually be in a stronger position than someone who’s working but has lots of debt.
Having that awkward conversation
Asking someone to be your guarantor isn’t easy. I remember the first time I had to ask my dad ā I was so nervous! Here’s how to make it less awkward:
Be upfront about what you’re asking. “I need to find a guarantor for my new flat, which means you’d be responsible for my rent if I couldn’t pay it.”
Explain why you need one. “The landlord requires it because I’m still on my probation period at work.”
Reassure them about your finances. “I’ve worked out my budget, and the rent is well within what I can afford with my salary.”
Give them time to think. “I completely understand if you need to sleep on it ā it’s a big commitment.”
Offer to put something in writing between you. “We could draw up our own agreement about how I’d pay you back if anything happened.”
What to do if you can’t find a guarantor?
If you’re thinking “I don’t have a guarantor for rent,” please don’t panic. I’ve seen so many people in this situation find solutions:
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Offer a larger deposit
Many landlords will waive the guarantor requirement if you can put down a bigger deposit ā maybe 6-8 weeks instead of the usual 5. It shows you’re financially responsible and gives them extra security.
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Pay rent upfront
If you have savings, offering to pay 3-6 months upfront can often remove the need for a guarantor. I know this isn’t possible for everyone, but worth considering if you do have some money set aside.
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Look for a rent guarantor scheme
These are brilliant services that act as your guarantor for a fee. Companies like Housing Hand, UK Guarantor and Your Guarantor typically charge between 60-100% of one month’s rent. Yes, it’s an extra cost, but it might be worth it to secure your perfect home.
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Target private landlords
Private landlords tend to be more flexible than letting agencies. They can make their own decisions without following company policies. Try looking on platforms like OpenRent, Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree where you can speak directly to landlords.
How long does a guarantor stay on a tenancy agreement?
This is something that catches many people out! Your guarantor typically remains responsible for the entire length of your fixed-term tenancy. If you renew or move to a rolling contract, the situation can get complicated.
The guarantor agreement usually ends when:
Your fixed term ends (unless specified otherwise)
The tenancy agreement changes significantly
The rent amount changes
All parties agree to terminate it
Always make sure your guarantor understands exactly how long they’re committing for. I’ve seen friendships strained when people thought they were only signing for 6 months but remained liable for years!
Comparing your options when you can’t get a traditional guarantor
When traditional guarantor options aren’t available, it helps to understand your alternatives. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Option | Typical Cost | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guarantor Service | 60-100% of monthly rent | Available to most people, quick approval | Additional cost, another bill to budget for | Those without UK family/friends |
| Higher Deposit | Extra 2-4 weeks’ rent (refundable) | No ongoing costs, gets returned eventually | Ties up more of your money upfront | Those with savings but no guarantor |
| Rent Upfront | 3-6 months’ rent paid in advance | Often very attractive to landlords, no guarantor needed | Requires significant savings, less financial flexibility | Those with lump sums available |
| Council Scheme | Varies by location | Often free or low-cost for eligible people | Limited availability, strict eligibility criteria | Those on benefits or low incomes |
Everyone’s situation is different, so the best option really depends on your personal circumstances and what you can afford.
What to do if you’re renting in England for the first time
If you’re new to renting in England, there’s a super helpful document called “How to rent: the checklist for renting in England” that your landlord should provide. It covers all your rights and responsibilities and helps you understand what’s normal in the UK rental market.
When you’re sorting out a guarantor, make sure both you and they understand:
Exactly what they’re liable for (just rent, or damages too?)
How long the guarantee lasts for
What would trigger them having to pay
How they would be notified if there were problems
Who can be my guarantor if I’m new to the UK?
If you’ve recently moved to the UK, finding a guarantor can be especially challenging. Here are some options that have worked for others:
UK-based relatives or friends if you’re lucky enough to have them
Your employer, if they’re willing to help (more common with professional or relocated workers)
International guarantor services that can verify overseas guarantors
University guarantor schemes if you’re a student
Co-living spaces that sometimes have more flexible requirements
Remember that what to do if you can’t find a guarantor often comes down to showing the landlord you’re trustworthy in other ways. Employment contracts, bank statements showing savings, and professional references can all help.
