Normally, rental agreements are signed by the primary renter and the landlord. However, there are times when one signature is not enough. Some landlords or establishments require that aside from the primary tenant, the lease agreement is signed by another party and are termed co-signors. Co-signors are people usually people who have authority over the primary tenant, quite often, one or both of the parents.

Not all units or landlords require a co-signor. This practice is commonly done by landlords of dormitories or apartments that are to be occupied by students or tenants who are below 18 years of age. Couples (married or not) who live together also usually co-sign their shared apartment. Short term leases on vacation lodges, also ask for co-signatories.

The lease agreement for individual tenants and those that are for tenants that need co-signors are basically the same. Rental applications will state the names and addresses of the landlord and the main signatory, the area being rented, duration of the lease, rental rate and payment due date, as well as the other terms (no pets, no smoking, etc). What is different is that rental applications with co-signors will state that if the main signatory is unable to perform his duties and responsibilities as a tenant (unable to pay rent for example), the landlord can and will hold the co-signatory (or co-signor) liable.

In case someone not very close to you asks that you be his or her co-signor, think it over thoroughly. As stated, you’re not just signing a sheet of paper so he can get a unit. You’re agreeing to be accountable to the landlord should something go wrong. If you’re not ready for that kind of responsibility, just turn down the offer gracefully.

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