If tenants don't qualify, would you accept a foreign co-signer?

[Trevor Levine]

Two youngsters want to rent my 1-bedroom furnished apartment. They have little income, but one says her parents are supporting her while she's in college. So I asked if the parents would co-sign.

The parents said Yes, but they are French citizens living in France. I assume they do not have SS#s. If I rent to the kids and they default, and the parents also default, is there any real downside for the parents?

I know I can take the kids to court, and maybe put an unlawful detainer on their credit reports. But would I have any leverage to make the parents pay? Thanks.