Can I rent without a guarantor in the UK?

Renting without a guarantor

Finding a place to rent can already feel like a challenge, especially when you’re asked for something you might not have such as a guarantor. Many landlords and letting agents in the UK request one, but what if you don’t have anyone who can act as your guarantor? The good news is that it’s still possible to rent without one but you’ll need to understand your options.

What Is a Guarantor?

A guarantor is someone (usually a family member or close friend) who agrees to pay your rent if you’re unable to. Landlords often ask for one as extra protection, especially if:

• You have a low or variable income

• You’re self-employed

• You’re a student

• You have a poor or limited credit history

• You’re renting in the UK for the first time

  
  

Guarantors usually need to live in the UK and have a stable financial background, which can make finding one difficult.

Can You Rent Without a Guarantor?

Yes, absolutely. While many landlords prefer tenants to have a guarantor, it’s not a legal requirement. There are several ways you can still secure a property:

1. Pay rent upfront

One of the most common alternatives is paying rent in advance. If you can afford it, offering 3 to 6 months’ rent upfront can give landlords peace of mind. It shows financial stability and reduces their risk.

Tip: Make sure you get a written receipt and confirm the terms in your tenancy agreement.

2. Use a rent guarantor service

If you don’t have someone who can act as a guarantor, you can use a professional guarantor company. These services act as your guarantor in exchange for a fee, typically 4–8% of your annual rent.

Popular UK providers include:

• Housing Hand

• UK Guarantor

• YourGuarantor

  
  

This option is often used by students, international tenants, or those without local family support.

3, Show proof of income of savings

If you have a steady job, strong payslips, or significant savings, you may be able to convince a landlord or agent that you’re a low-risk tenant.

Provide:

• Recent payslips or bank statements

• An employment contract

• Proof of savings or investments

  
  

The more evidence you have of financial stability, the less likely they’ll insist on a guarantor.

4. Offer a larger deposit (within legal limits)

Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords can only ask for up to five weeks’ rent as a deposit (or six weeks if annual rent exceeds £50,000).

While you can’t legally pay more as a deposit, you can still offer to pay some rent in advance (for example, two months upfront) to strengthen your application.

5. Find a private landlord

Private landlords can sometimes be more flexible than letting agents.They may be open to negotiation if you can provide:

• References from previous landlords

• A stable employment record

• Proof of regular income

  
  

Reaching out through trusted rental sites or local Facebook housing groups can help you find landlords open to these arrangements.

6. Consider a joint tenancy

If you move in with others, friends, family, or housemates and at least one of them has a guarantor, the landlord might accept the group as a whole.

Be aware, though, that in joint tenancies, everyone shares responsibility for rent payments and damages.

When might you need a guarantor?

There are some situations where it’s much harder to rent without one, such as:

• Being a student without employment

• Having a poor credit score

• Renting from a large letting agency with strict criteria
  

In these cases, consider a rent guarantor company or paying rent upfront as your best options.

Whilst many landlords ask for a guarantor, it’s not a deal breaker. By showing financial responsibility, whether through income proof, upfront payments, or a rent guarantor service, you can still secure a tenancy in the UK.

If you’re struggling, speak to the landlord or letting agent directly. Many are open to solutions as long as they feel reassured that rent will be paid on time.