100% online rental guarantees: how much they cost and how they are processed without leaving home

In recent years, rental guarantees have become a popular alternative to traditional owner-provided security deposits, with many landlords now requiring tenants to obtain such insurance. The process of acquiring these guarantees has evolved significantly with the rise of digital platforms, allowing individuals to secure them entirely online without needing to visit offices or complete in-person procedures. This shift has streamlined the process, making it faster and more accessible for both renters and property owners. The most common type of online rental guarantee is the surety insurance policy, which acts as a financial safeguard for the landlord in case the tenant fails to meet their obligations, such as missing rent payments or other charges. According to information available on specialized portals and companies participating in official programs, the typical cost of these policies for two-year contracts usually exceeds one month's rent. However, this can vary depending on the applicant’s credit profile, the contract amount, and the chosen company. Another form of digital rental guarantee involves professional guarantor companies that act as third-party endorsers. These firms sign the lease agreement as guarantors and assume responsibility using their own assets under the terms of the Civil and Commercial Code’s surety regime. Unlike insurance, this option does not involve a policy but rather a direct commitment from the company. The entire process is conducted digitally, including automated preliminary assessments, document verification, and the issuance of a guarantee certificate within hours. The digital process typically begins with an automatic prequalification step where users input the rent value and personal details, after which the platform estimates the cost. Subsequently, users must submit scanned or photographed documents, such as ID cards, pay stubs, CUIL certificates, employment certifications, or income proof, which are uploaded through the company’s website or mobile application. Credit evaluation is performed online, and once approved, the policy or guarantee contract is issued. In most cases, the final document is sent via email and can be signed digitally, enabling the completion of the lease agreement without any travel. In Buenos Aires, the city's Institute of Housing (IVC) offers a subsidized program called "Garantía + Fácil," which allows access to surety insurance at a 70 percent discount compared to market prices. This benefit, valid in 2026, is managed entirely online and targets tenants with medium or low incomes. The procedure includes digital registration, uploading documentation, and selecting one of the affiliated insurers. The IVC confirms that the process occurs without the need to appear in person and that the issued policy holds full legal validity. The costs differ based on the type of guarantee. Traditional surety insurance typically ranges from one to one-and-a-half months' rent, depending on the assessed risk. For surety guarantees, the price can be similar or slightly higher, although some companies offer installment payment plans. In the case of the "Garantía + Fácil" program, the 70 percent subsidy significantly reduces the final cost for eligible tenants, making it one of the most affordable options in the market. Following the repeal of Law 27.551, current regulations allow for complete freedom in contractual agreements, meaning that landlords and tenants can freely agree on the type of guarantee required, without legal restrictions on how many can be requested. This flexibility benefits both parties, promoting broader acceptance and use of digital rental guarantees.