Guarantor

A guarantor is an individual or entity that agrees to take on the responsibility of fulfilling a financial obligation if the primary borrower defaults or is unable to meet their contractual obligations. 

A guarantor’s primary role is to offer assurance to a lender or creditor that a financial obligation will be met, even if the primary borrower is unable to fulfil it. They serve as a form of financial security for the lender.

Types of guarantees:

1. Loan guarantees: In the context of loans, a guarantor agrees to repay the loan if the borrower defaults. This is common in situations where the borrower may not have a strong credit history or sufficient collateral.
2. Lease guarantees: In rental agreements, a guarantor may guarantee the lease payments on behalf of the tenant. 
3. Performance guarantees: In business contracts, a guarantor may provide assurance that a certain project will be completed or a service will be delivered according to the terms of the contract.

Lenders or creditors typically assess the creditworthiness and financial stability of a potential guarantor. They should have a strong credit history, stable income, and the capacity to cover the financial obligation if necessary. Being a guarantor can potentially impact the creditworthiness and financial stability if the primary lender does not fulfil their obligations

Becoming a guarantor often involves a high level of trust between the guarantor and the borrower. It’s important for both parties to have a clear understanding of the responsibilities involved.