# Guarantor apartment: What it is and how it works *Magnus Svensson* *26 juni 2026* > A guarantor apartment is a person who legally commits to paying the rent if you cannot. It's a requirement from many landlords in Stockholm to rent an apartment. A guarantor apartment is a person who takes responsibility for paying your rent if you cannot. For many apartment seekers in Stockholm, this is a necessary step to secure a rental, especially given the competitive market. This guide explains what a guarantor is, what requirements landlords set, and how to find and establish this important agreement. ## How do you find a guarantor for your apartment? ### Step 1: Understand the guarantor and surety agreement A guarantor apartment, also called a surety or co-signer, is someone who pledges personal security for your rent. This person legally commits to paying your rent if you fail to do so. This is a serious commitment with potential legal and financial consequences for the guarantor if the tenant does not pay. ### Step 2: Know the requirements for a guarantor Most landlords set specific criteria for who can serve as a guarantor. Typical requirements include: - Must be over 18 years old - Stable income (often 3–4 times your monthly rent) - Good payment history and credit standing - Usually a Swedish citizen or permanent resident - Often cannot already be a guarantor for someone else According to [Hyresgästföreningen](https://www.hyresgastforeningen.se/) (the Swedish Tenant Union), understanding these requirements upfront helps you identify suitable candidates. Different landlords may have different standards, so it's worth asking before you apply. ### Step 3: Find a suitable guarantor Many first-time renters find guarantors among family or close friends. A guarantee from a trusted relationship provides greater peace of mind for landlords. Other options include: - Parents or grandparents - Established family members with stable income - Close friends with proven financial reliability - In some cases, specialized companies offer guarantor services for a fee The key is finding someone willing to take on this responsibility and who meets the landlord's requirements. ### Step 4: Understand the scope of the surety obligation Before signing, both parties must understand what the guarantor's commitment entails. A personal guarantee for rent means the guarantor: - Is jointly and severally liable for the rent - Can be pursued legally for the full amount if you default - Remains responsible until the tenant, guarantor, or landlord formally releases them - May face financial penalties if the tenant fails to pay It is therefore critical that the guarantor is completely aware of their responsibility before signing. ### Step 5: Document the agreement in writing Everything must be documented in writing. The landlord should provide a clear guarantor or surety agreement that specifies: - The rent amount and rental period - Start and end dates of the guarantee - Which costs are covered (rent only, or also damages, cleaning, etc.?) - How the guarantor can be released from the obligation - All parties—tenant, guarantor, and landlord—should sign the document A written agreement protects everyone and prevents misunderstandings later. ### Step 6: Know your rights and release options It is crucial that both the tenant and guarantor understand how to exit the guarantee. Common ways to be released include: - The tenant ends the rental agreement (guarantee terminates automatically) - The landlord accepts a new guarantor - The guarantor and landlord mutually agree to release the guarantee - The tenant establishes sufficient financial standing that the landlord accepts no guarantor Swedish property law addresses many aspects of rental agreements and guarantees. Understanding these legal foundations helps protect everyone's rights. ## Summary A guarantor apartment is an essential tool for renting in Stockholm when landlords require one. By understanding what a guarantor is, what requirements are set, and how to properly document the agreement in writing, you can make this process smooth and fair for all parties. Remember, this is a legally binding agreement with serious consequences, so ensure everyone fully understands their obligations. ### What is a guarantor apartment and why is it required? A guarantor apartment is a person who legally commits to paying your rent if you cannot. Landlords require this to minimize the risk of non-payment, especially for first-time renters or people without established references in Sweden. ### Can a guarantor be released from their obligation? Yes, a guarantor can be released through several means: when you end your rental, when the landlord accepts a new guarantor, or through mutual agreement between parties. It is important to get this confirmed in writing. ### What are the consequences for a guarantor if the tenant doesn't pay? The guarantor can be pursued legally for the full rent amount if the tenant doesn't pay. This can affect their finances and credit score, so they should only take on this role if completely confident in the tenant's ability to pay.