Guaranteed rent means a company rents your property and pays you a fixed amount every month, even when it's empty. It can be a great fit for landlords who want steady income with no voids. But the arrangement is only as good as the company and the contract.
Here are the checks we'd want any landlord to make, including on us.
1. Check the company is real and established
Look the company up on Companies House. How long has it traded? Are its accounts filed on time? Who are the directors, and have they run companies that failed?
2. Ask for references from other landlords
A good operator will put you in touch with landlords they already pay. Ask whether payments arrive on time and how problems were handled.
3. Read the contract (and get it checked)
You want a clear written agreement covering:
- The rent, payment date and any annual review.
- The term and break clauses on both sides.
- Who pays bills, council tax and repairs.
- How the property is returned, and in what condition.
4. Get your consents
- Mortgage lender: many lenders need to approve a company let or short-term use.
- Freeholder if it's a leasehold flat.
- Insurer: tell them it's let to a company for short or serviced stays.
Skipping this can break your mortgage terms or void your insurance.
5. Understand how they'll use your property
Most guaranteed rent companies run the home as serviced accommodation or mid-term lets. Ask for the plan: who stays, how long and how guests are vetted. In London, ask how they handle the 90-night rule.
6. Check their insurance
They should hold public liability and suitable contents and business insurance for guests.
7. Keep safety certificates in date
Gas safety, electrical checks, smoke and CO alarms and fire safety still matter. Agree in writing who arranges and pays for each.
8. Agree a deposit or security
Ask whether they pay a deposit or offer a guarantee, and how damage beyond normal wear is handled.
9. Agree inspections
You should be able to visit, with notice, at regular intervals. A good operator will send photos and reports.
10. Watch for red flags
- Rent offers far above local long-let rents with no explanation.
- Pressure to sign quickly, or "no need" for lender consent.
- No written contract, or vague answers about who the guests are.
- Upfront fees from you to them.
How LoftQube Stays does it
Our guaranteed rent service uses a clear company let agreement, we help you get the right consents, and we keep the property maintained and compliant. If you'd rather keep more of the upside, our Airbnb management is the alternative. Not sure which suits you? Read Airbnb vs long let or get a free estimate.
Thinking of letting your property short-term?
We manage Airbnb, serviced accommodation and holiday lets across England and Wales, from city flats to countryside cottages and hotels. See what yours could earn.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules change, so check GOV.UK, GOV.WALES or a qualified adviser before you act.