How to Get a Parent to Co-Sign a Lease
Some individuals who can't get approved for a lease due to bad rental history — such as an eviction or failure to pay rent — might need someone to co-sign a lease for them. Additionally, landlords typically require a co-signer if the prospective tenant is under 18 years old. Parents might be hesitant to co-sign, because their credit score can be negatively affected if their child breaks the lease or causes damage to the rental property. If you have a parent who's reluctant to co-sign a lease for you, you can offer certain assurances to put your parent's mind at ease.
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Instructions
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Assure your parent that you will always pay rent on time. Ask your potential landlord to contact your parent if you pay rent late. Have your parent speak to your potential landlord about being contacted in the event you fail to pay rent on time. This will assure your parent that she will be notified immediately if you run into trouble regarding unpaid rent.
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Offer to pay a larger security deposit. If you can afford it, speak to your landlord about leaving a security deposit larger than what he usually requires; if he agrees, have it included in the lease terms and make sure your parent receives a copy of the lease. This way, if you cause damage above and beyond normal wear and tear, your landlord can use the extra money for repairs, which will prevent your parent from incurring liability for damages.
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Tell your parent she will be the main contact person if any other problems arise. If your landlord is willing, have him promise your parent that she will be notified if there are any problems with you as a tenant. For example, if your neighbors complain about noise or if there's a possibility you might be evicted for repeated offenses, your landlord can assure your parent that she will be notified immediately.
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Promise your parent that you intend to comply with all lease terms. If your parent is reluctant to co-sign, it's likely because she's worried about her credit score being impacted negatively. Tell your parent you intend to communicate openly, and immediately, if any problems arise.
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Ask your roommate's parent to co-sign as well. If you're planning on living with a roommate, inquire as to whether your roommate's parent would be willing to co-sign the lease as well. If you plan to have a roommate, your parent might be reluctant to co-sign a lease because she's not sure if your future roommate is responsible. Although some landlords don't allow for multiple co-signers, it's worth it to ask.
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