Rent guarantee insurance only, meaning bought on its own rather than as part of a landlord policy or an agent's service, is available and is usually cheaper. What it does not include is the referencing, which is the condition most often failed, so the saving is real only if you will run the referencing yourself to the insurer's standard.
Who sells it standalone
Specialist providers and several landlord insurers, direct or through brokers. It can be bought for a single tenancy, sometimes mid tenancy where the tenant has a clean payment history, though most policies want it in place from the start.
What you have to do yourself
Referencing before the tenancy: identity, right to rent, income or employment verification at the stated multiple, a previous landlord reference and a credit check, plus referencing and proper execution of any guarantee. Then the tenancy paperwork: written agreement, deposit protected with prescribed information, compliance documents served.
When bundling is worth the difference
Where you will not run that process consistently, particularly across several properties, an agent's or insurer's bundled version includes it and the margin buys compliance you would otherwise not achieve. A cheaper standalone policy whose conditions you have not met is the most expensive option of all.
Questions people ask about rent guarantee insurance only
Can I buy rent guarantee on its own?
Yes, from specialist providers and several landlord insurers, direct or through a broker. It is usually cheaper than a bundle.
Can I add it mid tenancy?
Some insurers allow it where the tenant has a clean payment history. Most want it in place from the start of the tenancy.
What do I have to do myself?
The referencing to the insurer's standard, and the tenancy paperwork: written agreement, protected deposit with prescribed information, and the compliance documents.