Rent Guarantor Scheme
Many private landlords and estate agents require tenants to provide a rent guarantor who will be required to pay rent should the tenant fail to do so.
We’ve officially partnered with Housing Hand, which means University of York students who do not have a UK guarantor can use their service at a discounted rate upon successful application. Use the unique referral link below to access the 50% discount.
What is a rent guarantor?
A rent guarantor is someone who legally takes responsibility for your rent if you are unable to pay.
Having a rent guarantor is a proven and trustworthy way to increase your UK renting options. Housing Hand can make renting easier by providing a UK guarantor to everyone who doesn’t have one.
Purpose of a guarantor
Having a guarantor proves to landlords and accommodation providers that you can meet rent and bill requirements.
Cost of service
The Housing Hand service costs a percentage of the value of your tenancy / lease. When you complete your application, you will be asked to pay a small onboarding fee of £20. This allows Housing Hand to complete ID verification checks on you and your co-signer. You then won't need to start paying your subscription fee until you move in (unless you choose to pay upfront instead of monthly). You can find out the exact cost of your application by requesting a quote on the Housing Hand website.
How it works
1. Find your new accommodation
Before you start your guarantor application on the Housing Hand website, you will need to provide details of your new accommodation.
2. Apply for your guarantor
Apply online and follow the step-by-step guide. It only takes a few minutes and you will then receive your quote.
3. Move in
Once you have moved in to your new property, you can either pay your guarantor fee by splitting it over 6 or 12 months, and Housing Hand will be your guarantor for the length of your tenancy.
Eligibility
Whether you are from the UK or overseas, studying full time or working time in the UK (including self-employed), you can apply for the Housing Hand Guarantor Service (with certified proof of income or study).
The easiest way to see if you are eligible is to use the quick and free application form. This will give you an answer and a quote within minutes.
Requirements
There are a few things you'll need to provide when applying for Housing Hand, including a co-signer. Your co-signer must be over 18 years old and agree to take responsibility for ensuring you meet the obligations outlined in your tenancy agreement.
1. Proof of study for students
A correspondence from the University, UCAS form or a Student ID.
2. Proof of ID
This can be a passport, drivers license or national ID document.
3. Co-signer details
This is someone Housing Hand can get in touch with if they can't contact you.
24/7 healthcare and wellbeing support included
As part of the Housing Hand package, you will also gain access to professional healthcare support. The virtual GP service connects you with qualified, NHS-practicing doctors through phone consultations available 24/7. It also includes confidential counselling support and a wellbeing hub with a range of online resources.
- Unlimited consultations with qualified GPs via phone or video
- Access to mental health counselling and wellbeing resources
- Legal advice on personal matters including tenancy, customer and family law
- Money and debit advice, from budget planning to understanding your finances
Are you a care leaver or estranged student?
The University of York operates an in-house Rent Guarantor Scheme open to UK students who are either care leavers, estranged from their parents, or have exceptional circumstances (where there are no alternative UK guarantors available and where the student has explored all other options, including properties that do not require a guarantor).