Leasing of accommodation to foreigners within Cyprus is an elaborate process because of a conglomeration of the local laws, economic status and cultural sensitivities.
Tenant law and Tenant requirements
Foreigners who intend to rent a house in Cyprus must adhere to the national laws of Cyprus. Migration legislation of the Republic of Cyprus stipulates that to remain in the country lawfully, non-European Union citizens must obtain a residence permit (LPR). The presence of a confirmed place of residence is one of the conditions to get a residence permit, which could be provided by either a lease or ownership of real estate.
To acquire a residence permit, you are to submit a valid passport, a certificate of the criminal record, medical certificates, the evidence of financial solvency. Moreover, the document that proves that the housing exists should be provided, i.e., a lease or a real estate buying contract. Therefore, the process of legalisation of the stay of a foreigner in Cyprus turns out to include renting a house.
The leasing procedure and a form of agreement
The search process of real estate: techniques and suggestions.
The procedure of renting starts by locating an appropriate house. There are several principal means by which foreigners can acquire property:
Real estate agencies
It is the surest method of searching since agencies deal with already tested properties and tenants. Their services are, however, charged at extra (commissions are normally a month’s rent).
Online sources
Cyprus online real estate, including such websites be Bazaraki, Facebook marketplace and Cyprus property portal, which contain listings both by private persons and by agencies.
Local classified advertisements, newspapers: In the large cities, it is possible to find the current offers on the notice boards (usually notice boards of the city) as well as in print media.
Text messages and personal recommendations
When travelling to small towns and tourist sites, you can find a place to stay by asking the locals or the expats around you for their recommendations using text messages.
What should to taken into consideration when making a home choice
It is necessary to consider the following before signing the contract:
Legal issues of housing
Ensure that the landlord has papers to prove the right to own the premises. There are ownership issues, especially when it comes to mortgaged housing in certain instances.
Utility bills
Water, internet and electricity are billed separately in Cyprus, and their cost can change per the season. Electricity bills may shoot up because of the air conditioning, especially in the hotter months.
Neighbourhood and infrastructure
It is necessary to pay attention to means of transport accessibility, shops, medical centres and other services.
Condition of housing
Whether the apartment or house you get into rent requires repair works, you must also ensure that you discuss with the owner who will foot the repair costs.
Inspection of property: key information
It is pertinent to carry out a good inspection of the premises before leasing one. In particular, where the term of the contract is lengthy, it may be good to see that the following are checked:
- The state of the plumbing and electrical systems. Sometimes in Cyprus, there are issues with the water system and in the older homes, the electricity.
- Mould growths are frequent as the weather of Cyprus is humid; therefore, there may be mould issues in the house, particularly during the wintertime.
- Doors and window frames-in case they are rusty, it is cold during the winter season, and during summer it is hot.
- Air conditioning is operating- summers are hot in Cyprus, and therefore, there ought to be air conditioning.
- Take pictures of the property before signing the contract, as it might cause some future quarrels with the owner regarding the condition of the property.
Lease signature
General clauses of the agreement: In Cyprus, a tenancy agreement (Tenancy Agreement) must contain:
The duration of the tenancy, 6 months, 1 year, is the conservative rule, and longer or shorter intervals are also possible (long-term or short-term tenancy).
Check the amount of rent: It is always paid every month, but one may also pay in advance.
Deposit (security deposit): On average, it may be about 1-2 months of the rent that is returned at the end of the term in case there is no damage to the property.
Paying the utility bills: it is required to establish who pays the water, electricity, internet and gas.
Responsibility to repair: This is who has to pay to be repairs in the event of any breakdowns.
Ejection provisions: a normal 1-2 months’ notice must be provided regarding the expiry of the lease.
Contract registration
In Cyprus, there are types of rentals:
Short-term rentals
An ideal occupation for both tourists and seasonal labourers.
The agreement should last between 1 week to 6 months.
These are the most regularly leased properties through such apps as Airbnb or Booking.com. The cost of rent is high compared to those who live in permanent dwellings.
Long-term rentals
It is appropriate among foreigners who are to live in Cyprus for a long period (working expats, students, and retired individuals).
The term of the contract is less than a year or a couple of years. It is cheap when compared to short-term renting.
You can also view these posts:
Traveling to Cyprus: Visa requirements
Cyprus immigration quotas and caps – what you need to know
Cost of living in Cyprus
