You may find yourself in a situation where you can't rent a property as you are struggling to get a guarantor.
Some of these circumstances can be:
No relative or friend is willing to act as a guarantor.
You are a care leaver.
No relationship with your parents.
You are an international student.
If you can see yourself on this list, do not worry. There are plenty of options to choose from. Find below how these options work and which one may apply best for your situation.
University Guarantor schemes:
Typically, if your university or college accepts your application to join their scheme, it acts as your guarantor to help you become a private renter. Enquire with your university or college if they have something similar by contacting the student union or the campus accommodation service or check their website.
Bursaries, scholarships and other support offered by universities and colleges:
Enquire with your university or college if they provide bursaries or scholarships or any other practical support specifically for students in your situation.
This support exists for students:
To help care leavers avoid homelessness in the holidays.
To help them pay a larger deposit or extra rent in advance to ensure the application process with the landlord.
Unite Foundation Scholarship Scheme:
The Unite Foundation Scholarship Scheme is a charity that offers help to care leavers and students who do not have any relationship with their parents anymore. It provides students with the opportunity to apply for free accommodation, in some cases up to 3 years of undergraduate study at some universities.
Services for children leaving care:
To maintain the 'staying put' arrangement, the Local Authority must monitor the arrangement, provide advice, assistance, and support to the 'former relevant child' until the care leaver reaches the age of 21. These services include financial assistance.
Private Guarantor schemes:
Some companies can act as a private guarantor in exchange for a small fee.
You can find more information below:
Other options:
You could negotiate with your landlord by offering a larger deposit (3-6 months in advance). This will give them more security when it comes to renting to you.
Some councils offer rent deposit schemes to help people who can't afford to pay a deposit. Consider contacting your local council to see if they can assist you.
Useful websites to get help:
For care leavers:
If you don't have any relationship with your parents:
For international students:
UK Council for International Student Affairs
Outside the UK: +44 20 7788 9214
Inside the UK: 020 7788 9214