Most rental viewings last fifteen minutes. In that time you’re expected to decide whether a place is right for the next year or more of your life, often while another interested tenant is waiting outside. It’s no wonder people sign first and discover the problems later: the air conditioning in the bedroom doesn’t work, the common expenses are higher than expected, or the landlord takes weeks to fix anything.
The way to avoid that is simple. Go in with a list of questions and don’t feel awkward asking them. A good landlord or agent will be glad you did.
About the rent and the money
- What exactly does the rent include? Ask whether common expenses, water, internet or parking are part of the price or extra.
- How much are the common expenses, and who pays them? In many buildings they’re paid by the tenant. Ask for a recent figure, not an estimate.
- What is the deposit, and when and how is it returned? Agree in writing what can be deducted and in what timeframe it comes back.
- How is rent paid, and on what date? A bank transfer gives you a clear record.
- Can the rent increase during the contract? If so, by how much and when.
About bills and utilities
- Will the electricity and water accounts be transferred to my name? Find out who arranges it and whether there are any outstanding bills on the property.
- What are typical monthly bills? Ask about summer electricity in particular. Air conditioning in July and August can make a big difference.
- Is there internet already installed? Check which providers are available in the building, especially if you work from home.
- How is water heated? Solar water heaters are common in Cyprus, but check whether there is an electric backup for winter.
About the property itself
Look properly, not politely. Open cupboards, run the taps, flush the toilet and turn on the air conditioning in every room.
- Do all the appliances and air-conditioning units work? Ask when they were last serviced.
- Are there any signs of damp or leaks? Check corners, ceilings, behind furniture and under sinks.
- Is it furnished, and what stays? Ask for an inventory list with photos before you move in.
- Is there covered or allocated parking? And is it included in the rent?
- Is there storage? A storage room in the building can make a small flat far more liveable.
About repairs and the landlord
- Who do I contact if something breaks? The landlord, an agent or a management company?
- Who pays for which repairs? Agree on the difference between normal wear and tear and damage.
- How quickly are repairs usually handled? Asking how a recent problem was dealt with can tell you a lot.
- Can I make small changes, such as hanging pictures, painting a room or installing a washing machine?
- Are pets allowed? Even if you don’t have one now, ask if you might in the future.
About the contract
- How long is the contract, and what are the renewal terms?
- Can I leave early, and with how much notice? Look for a clear break clause.
- What happens if the landlord sells the property? Ask how your tenancy is protected.
- Will the contract be in writing and signed by both sides? Never rely on a verbal agreement.
If anything in the contract isn’t clear, ask for it in writing or have a lawyer look at it before you sign. It’s much easier to agree terms now than to argue about them later.
About the building and the area
- Who lives in the building? Mostly families, students or professionals?
- How is the building managed? Is there an active management committee, and are common areas kept clean?
- What’s the area like at night and at weekends? Visit again at a different time if you can.
- How far is it to work, schools, shops and public transport? Test the journey at rush hour, not on a quiet Sunday.
Before you say yes
Take photos during the viewing so you can compare properties later. Write down the answers you get. If you decide to go ahead, make sure what was promised during the viewing appears in the contract, whether it’s a new mattress, a repaired air-conditioning unit or parking included in the rent.
Looking for a rental in Nicosia, Larnaca or Limassol? G&P Lazarou Estate Agents can arrange viewings, answer your questions and guide you through the contract. Call +357 22024949, email info@gplazarou.com or see our properties for rent at gplazarou.com.
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