# Guarantors and Co-Signors: Fortifying Strategic Bridges

> When FRFIs rely on a guarantor or co-signor for mortgage support, they must conduct a sufficiently rigorous credit assessment of the guarantor/co-signor.

Category: Financing
Last verified: 2026-02-18
Source: https://ratellow.com/faqs/financing/guarantors-and-co-signors-fortifying-strategic-bridges

## Answer
When FRFIs rely on a guarantor or co-signor for mortgage support, they must conduct a sufficiently rigorous credit assessment of the guarantor/co-signor. The assessment's rigor should align with the degree of reliance on the guarantor/co-signor's support. The guarantor/co-signor must fully comprehend their legal obligations. Strategically leveraging guarantors or co-signors strengthens the mortgage application.

## Related guide
- https://ratellow.com/guides/self-employed-mortgage-bfs

## Sources
- Guarantors and co-signors of mortgages — https://www.osfi-bsif.gc.ca/en/guidance/guidance-library/residential-mortgage-underwriting-practices-procedures-guideline-2017#2.3.2
- Contents — https://www.sagen.ca/ups/underwriting-documentation/#documentation
- I. Purpose and scope of the guideline — https://www.osfi-bsif.gc.ca/en/guidance/guidance-library/residential-mortgage-underwriting-practices-procedures-guideline-2017#1.0