First-Time Tenant / Renter’s Guide

Cyprus offers several rental options, from city apartments to houses, villas, studios, and short-term holiday lets. For first-time renters, choosing the right rental type and lease period is the foundation of a smoother tenancy.

Types of rentals

• Apartments: Most common in cities such as Limassol, Nicosia, and Larnaca.
• Houses / Villas: Common in Paphos, Pegeia, and rural areas.
• Studio flats: A budget-friendly option for individuals.
• Holiday lets: Short-term rentals that are generally not suitable for long-term tenancy.

Typical rental periods

• Standard leases: Usually 12 months.
• Shorter contracts: Some landlords may allow 6-month agreements.
• Long-term rentals: 2–3 year arrangements are common in rural areas.

What is usually included

• Kitchen appliances.
• Air-conditioning units.
• Basic furniture, if the property is furnished.
• Communal fees, sometimes included and sometimes charged separately.

Before signing, calculate the full monthly cost of living in the property, not just the rent. Summer electricity usage can increase due to air-conditioning.

Monthly costs

• Rent.
• Electricity through EAC.
• Water.
• Internet.
• Communal fees, if not included.
• Gas, either bottled or central.

Where to look

• Reputable real estate agents.
• Local Facebook groups.
• Property websites.
• Community notice boards, especially in Paphos and Pegeia.

What to ask before viewing

• Is the property pet-friendly?
• Are communal fees included?
• What is the minimum contract length?
• Is the property furnished or unfurnished?
• What is the deposit amount?

Inside the home

• Water pressure and hot water system, including solar and immersion.
• Air-conditioning units for both cooling and heating.
• Windows, doors, and locks.
• Signs of damp or mould.
• Kitchen and laundry appliances.
• Electrical outlets and lighting.
• Internet availability in the area.

Outside the home

• Parking availability.
• Noise levels.
• Condition of communal areas.
• Proximity to shops, bus routes, and services.

A tenancy agreement should clearly state the most important terms of the rental relationship.

• Rent amount and due date.
• Deposit amount and return conditions.
• Contract length.
• Notice period.
• Pet policy.
• Maintenance responsibilities.
• Inventory list of furniture and appliances.
• Rules for communal areas.

• Deposits are usually 1–2 months’ rent.
• Landlords must return the deposit minus any justified deductions.
• Tenants are responsible for damage, not fair wear and tear.
• Always request a signed inventory.
• Take your own photos on move-in day.

Electricity (EAC)

• Take meter readings on move-in day.
• Transfer the account into your name.

Water

• Each municipality has its own water board.
• Take meter readings and transfer the account.

Internet

• Providers include Cyta, Primetel, Epic, and Cablenet.
• Installation can take a few days.

Gas

• Bottled gas is common.
• Some buildings have central gas systems.

• Pay rent on time.
• Keep the property clean.
• Report maintenance issues promptly.
• Respect neighbours and communal rules.
• Avoid making major changes without permission.
• Maintain good behaviour from pets, if allowed.

• Provide a safe, habitable property.
• Handle structural repairs.
• Maintain appliances that were included in the lease.
• Respect the tenant’s privacy.
• Give proper notice before entering the property.

• Give notice according to your contract.
• Settle all utility bills.
• Clean the property thoroughly.
• Repair any tenant-caused damage.
• Return all keys and access cards.
• Attend the final inspection.

• Start your search early, because good rentals go fast.
• Be honest about pets from the beginning.
• Keep copies of all documents and receipts.
• Communicate clearly with your landlord.
• Do not rush into signing; read everything carefully.
• Take photos on move-in and move-out day.