If you are living off-campus in accommodation provided by a private landlord or a letting agent, you may also be asked to provide a guarantor. Providing a guarantor is common practice in the UK and provides security and knowledge that the rent will be paid in full and on time.
A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your rent for you, or reimburse the landlord for damages caused by you, if you fail to do so. Guarantor agreements are legally binding. Ensure that if you are required to complete one, you have read and understood it.
If you cannot provide a qualified UK guarantor, Housing Hand offers a guarantor service at a cost. Fees start from £295. This is a one-off fee for six to 12 months cover. Up to 45% of this fee is returned at the end of your tenancy, subject to the length of the tenancy. Terms and conditions apply.
Housing Hand requires that you provide the following documentation to be eligible for the guarantor service:
- A copy of your passport and university acceptance email or Campus Card
- You will also need a co-signer who will sign the agreement with Housing Hand; normally a parent or guardian. The co-signer will need to provide a copy of their passport and proof of address.
Your private landlord or letting agent may also require a reference from you if you have had your own home before. Usually, this will be a letter from your previous landlord about their experience with you as a tenant.
Landlords and letting agents have a legal duty to ensure their tenants have a legal right to live in the UK for the entire period of their tenancy agreement. To verify this, you may be asked to show your original passport and any relevant visa or immigration documentation before you can be offered accommodation.
You may be asked for a ‘share code’ from the GOV.UK website. See further information on your right to rent.
Published: 19 October 2022