Joint Guarantor
Joint Guarantor
A person jointly liable for a tenant’s debts under a guarantee contract. Eligibility depends on the landlord or guarantor; Japanese nationality is not a universal requirement.
Sources checked
A guarantor has financial obligations
A joint and several guarantor is liable for agreed tenant debts. The landlord may demand payment directly, without first pursuing the tenant. Check the covered debts, duration and scope before signing. Someone who only agrees to help with emergency contact must not be listed as a guarantor.
Sources[1]
A personal revolving guarantee needs a cap
A new personal revolving guarantee entered into from 1 April 2020 must specify a maximum liability amount or it is invalid. This caps total liability, not each month’s payment. The parties agree the amount; no universal statutory number of months’ rent applies.
Sources[2]
Check eligibility and documents per property
There is no single nationwide document list. Ask management about guarantor eligibility and evidence; do not assume Japanese nationality is always required. If nobody can act, explain this and ask whether a company guarantee is acceptable. Do not supply another person’s details or signature without consent.
Sources[3]
Practical checklist
- Have the guarantor read and understand the terms.
- Check that the maximum liability amount is clear.
- Ask about options if no personal guarantor is available.
References
Prepared from official and public sources. Checklists are ELB reading aids; confirm specific application, fee and contract terms with the relevant organization.