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Can I apply before I’ve found a place?

Short answer: not yet.

Right now, you need a specific unit and landlord before you can apply for Padder Guarantor or Padder Deposit.

We’re actively working on a pre-approval experience for renters, but it’s not available just yet. For now, Padder only steps in once there’s a real lease scenario on the table.

Why pre-approvals aren’t available today

Today, Padder doesn’t offer “generic” pre-approvals for a few reasons:

  • Risk depends on the actual lease
    Pricing and eligibility are based on:
    • The building and unit
    • The monthly rent
    • The lease term
  • The policy protects your landlord, not just you
    Padder Guarantor and Padder Deposit insure a specific landlord and tenancy.
    To do that properly, we need:
    • A real landlord or property manager
    • A specific unit and lease, not just a renter profile

Our team is working toward a pre-approval flow, but until then, everything stays lease-specific.

When should I start my Padder application relative to lease signing?

Use this sequence:

  1. Apply for the unit with the landlord or property manager first.
  2. Once they’ve reviewed your application, they may:
    1. Refer you to Padder Guarantor to help you qualify, and/or
    2. Offer Padder Deposit instead of a standard Last Month’s Rent deposit.
  3. As soon as Padder is mentioned or you’re given a Padder link, you should start your Padder application right away—ideally within 24–48 hours.

Most renters complete their Padder application between conditional approval and lease signing so the landlord can finalize everything without delay.

How far in advance can I apply before move-in?

You can apply once you know:

  • The building and unit
  • The monthly base rent
  • The lease start date, and
  • Your landlord has confirmed that Padder is accepted for that property.

Current timing rules:

  • You can apply and be approved ahead of your move-in date, as long as the lease details are known.
  • Padder typically won’t bind the policy or collect payment more than ~60 days before your lease start date.
  • If you’re applying earlier in the leasing cycle, your approval and details may be re-checked closer to move-in before you sign the final Padder agreement and pay your one-time premium.