Understanding Third-Party Co-Signing Companies: What Renters Need to Know

If you’ve been struggling to get approved for an apartment due to credit issues or rental debt, a third-party co-signing company might be your best path forward. But what exactly are these companies—and how do they work?

In this post, we’ll break down what co-signing companies do, how they differ from personal co-signers, and what you need to know to improve your chances of getting approved.

What Is a Co-Signing Company (Also Known as a Guarantor Service)?

A co-signing company, also known as a guarantor service, is a third-party organization that helps renters get approved when they don’t meet an apartment's standard rental criteria—such as credit score and/or rental history. Guarantor services offer the property a financial guarantee that rent will be paid. This gives the landlord or management company extra peace of mind.

Important Things to Know

Before you apply, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You must apply with the apartment partnering with the Co-sign Company FIRST!

  The apartment will first verify that you meet their basic requirements—such as income, occupancy limits, and criminal background. Only after passing that initial screening will they refer your application to their co-signing partner for review.

• Not all co-sign companies are created equal. Some are far more flexible and approval-friendly than others.

• Most apartments don’t partner with co-sign companies. It’s important to work with someone who knows which properties do.

• Some apartments have limits. Even if they partner with a co-sign company, they may not allow applicants with rental debt or still require it is under a certain amount or over a certain period of years.

• You still have to meet basic criteria. That includes income, occupancy limits, and criminal background checks.

• There’s a cost. Most co-signing companies charge a non-refundable fee, usually equivalent to one month’s rent.

How We Help

At Texas Apartment Locating, we work daily with apartments that partner with major co-signing companies and know exactly which ones are the most flexible and applicant-friendly.

If you’re a candidate for co-sign assistance, we’ll:

• Match you with properties that work with reputable co-signing companies

• Confirm the apartment’s partnership status before you apply

• Advocate on your behalf if issues come up—like requesting that your application be reviewed by their co-sign partner or request a corporate review

We also communicate directly with leasing teams to make sure you're applying where you have a realistic shot at getting approved—saving you time, money, and stress.

🤗 You’re Not Alone in This

Navigating second-chance leasing isn’t always easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to guide you every step of the way with personalized support, insider knowledge, and a deep understanding of how co-signing companies (guarantor services) work. Best of all, our service is 100% FREE to renters!

Have questions about how it all works or whether you qualify?Reach out—we’re here to help. At Texas Apartment Locating, we are non-judgmental and will do our best to help you find an apartment willing to work with your situation. If you'd like help finding a second chance community or one partnering with a co-sign company please fill out a short search request form to get started.