Landlords “abusing power over guarantors” claim activist groups 

A coalition of 28 activist groups, including Shelter and Generation Rent, has urged Housing Secretary Angela Rayner to amend the Renters Rights Bill, arguing that current guarantor rules are discriminatory. They claim that one in three renters struggles to provide a guarantor, potentially excluding them from rental opportunities. The coalition proposes banning guarantor demands when tenants can afford rent or when landlords have insurance, and capping guarantor liability at six months’ rent.

While some government officials acknowledge the challenges posed by guarantor requirements, they also highlight the assurance guarantors provide to landlords. The Ministry for Housing stated it has no plans to restrict guarantor use but emphasized that landlords must not discriminate and should assess tenants individually. The Renters Rights Bill aims to create a fairer housing market by addressing issues like excessive rent demands and abolishing no-fault evictions.