Guarantee certificate
Tenants who receive financial aid can apply for a guarantee certificate from Reykjavík City. The City of Reykjavík becomes a guarantor and guarantees to pay a tenant’s rent in the event that the tenant defaults on their rental obligation.
Am I entitled to a guarantee certificate?
If you rent an apartment and have received financial aid in the past 2 months, you may be entitled to a Guarantee Certificate. Tenants who face significant social difficulties and housing problems may also be entitled to a Guarantee Certificate even if they do not receive financial aid.
Before applying for a Guarantee Certificate, you must have contacted your bank to find out if you are eligible for a bank guarantee or loan.
How do I apply for a guarantee certificate?
You can apply for a Guarantee Certificate through My Pages
You can also fill out a PDF application and send it to abyrgdaryfirlysing@reykjavik.is or submit it at your district center.
A draft lease agreement or signed lease agreement must be provided. When a confirmed/signed lease agreement is available, you need to present proof that the lease agreement has been registered in the Housing and Construction Authority's housing database or a copy of the notarized lease agreement.
A guarantee certificate must be made within 3 months of the application's approval.
What if my application is denied?
If your application is denied, and you believe there are exceptional circumstances, you can request a review by the Welfare Council Appeal Board.
Do I need to renew my guarantee certificate?
A guarantee certificate is generally valid for the same length of time as the lease agreement. You need to renew your Guarantee Certificate when your lease agreement expires.
How does the landlord request payment of the security deposit?
The landlord sends a request for the security deposit payment to abyrgdaryfirlysing@reykjavik.is. Afterwards, they fill out a written declaration of the tenant’s failure to perform contractual obligations. The landlord must provide confirmation that the tenant has been informed of the requirement.