Add a Lease Guarantor or Co-Signer Safely

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Request the landlord’s written guarantor policy to confirm eligibility.
• Verify the guarantor’s income meets the required multiple for approval.
• Review the guarantor’s credit report for any delinquencies.
• Ensure the lease distinguishes guarantor from co-signer and spells out liabilities.
• Confirm the guarantor’s liability is limited to rent and damages.
• Check if the landlord can pursue the guarantor before the tenant.
• Sign and store the guarantor agreement securely.
• Clarify if guarantor’s obligation ends upon subletting or lease transfer.
• Verify if notarization of the guarantor’s signature is required.
• Request written notice that the guarantor will be informed of missed payments.
• Discuss how the guarantor will receive notice of lease changes or rent increases.
• Document all communications with the landlord about guarantor terms.