Assess Guarantor Solvency for Renters in Spain
As a renter, reviewing a guarantor's solvency helps reduce risks before signing a lease in Spain. This article clearly explains which documents to request from the guarantor, how to interpret income and liabilities, common risk signs and what legal and practical steps you can take if something goes wrong. You will find tips for requesting references, checking past rents and contracts, and understanding when a guarantor is sufficient compared to other guarantees such as rent guarantee insurance. We also include check templates and recommendations to protect your rights as a tenant during the guarantor selection process. If needed, we indicate where to obtain official documentation and how to act on doubts.
What to check first
Before accepting a guarantor, request and verify basic documents to ensure they can respond to defaults according to the Urban Leases Act (LAU)[1].
- Identity document (DNI/NIE) and contact details.
- Employment contracts and recent payslips (3–6 months).
- Income tax return or withholding certificate.
- Bank statements and proof of regular payments.
- References from previous landlords and rent payment proofs.
Keep copies of all documents in a secure file.
Frequently asked questions
- What documents can I ask from the guarantor?
- You can request DNI/NIE, employment contract, 3–6 months of payslips, tax return, bank statements and references from previous rentals.
- Can I check for seizures or debts?
- Yes, request certificates of encumbrances and ask the guarantor for documentation showing whether there are seizures, mortgages or other debts that affect their payment capacity.
- What happens if the guarantor does not comply and the tenant stops paying?
- The landlord may claim against the guarantor and, if appropriate, start an eviction procedure in the Court of First Instance; check official deadlines and procedures.[2]
How to do it
- Ask the guarantor for DNI/NIE and an updated contact method.
- Request employment contract and recent payslips to verify job stability.
- Request the income tax return or a withholding certificate to confirm income.
- Review bank statements or proofs that show regular payments and savings capacity.
- Check for seizures or encumbrances that reduce payment capacity through official documents.
- Include in the lease a clause that specifies the scope, duration and limits of the guarantor's obligation.
- Keep copies of everything and register communications with date and delivery method.
Do not sign without verifying the complete documentation.
