What is rent guarantee insurance?

Rent guarantee insurance is a policy landlords (or letting agents) take out to cover lost income if a tenant stops paying rent. It's not something you buy as a renter - but it can affect you indirectly.

Why it matters to you: landlords with this insurance often require stricter referencing (proof of income, credit checks, sometimes a guarantor) to qualify for the cover. If you're asked for unusually thorough checks, this is often why.

If you're self-employed, a student, or new to the UK without a credit history, ask early whether the landlord uses this kind of insurance - it can shape what documents you'll need.