RENTAL HOUSING IN GUYANA
Rentals in Guyana
Have you decided that you want to rent a house, room or apartment in Guyana? Here are some important facts that you should know about rentals in Guyana.
Why rent a house in Guyana?
If you are not sure whether you should rent or buy a house in Guyana, here are some things to consider when renting a house:
Flexibility; rental contracts can be terminated within a period of one to three months.
Budget assessment and fixed rental costs.
Major repairs and routine maintenance are (usually) the landlord’s responsibility.
Rental Contracts & Tenants' rights
What should your rental contract include? What are your landlord’s obligations towards you and what are your obligations as a tenant towards your landlord? Although not mandatory, a good lawyer could help you understand your rights as a tenant.
Rental Pricing & Requirements
The availability of rental properties in Guyana is correlated with the housing demand and prices. Rent may vary for property in the centre of Georgetown. The rental price can be either inclusive or exclusive of some utilities which can include energy (gas and electricity), Internet, phone line and water. This is determined by the landlord and terms should be included in your lease.
You may also be asked for guarantees concerning your ability to pay the rent. If you are working in Guyana, you might need to demonstrate a copy of your employment contract.
Home / Household insurance
If you rent, the landlord will typically ensure that the building is adequately insured. However, coverage to protect your belongings and household contents from damage caused by burglary, fire etc. may be your responsibility.
Rental security deposits in Guyana
When renting a house in Guyana, most tenants are required to pay a one-time rental security deposit. This is in case the tenant causes substantial damage to the property. This does not refer to the regular wear and tear that happens when living in a property. If you did not get written permission from your landlord, significant alterations to the property could be considered damage. You might have to pay for the costs of returning the property to its original condition.
When do you need to pay the security deposit?
Generally, tenants pay the one-time deposit together with their first month’s rent.
How much is a rental security deposit in Guyana?
A landlord is legally allowed to request a security deposit. In the Guyanese housing market, there are no rules concerning the maximum amount for a rental security deposit. The tenant determines whether the requested amount is reasonable enough to pay.
How to get your security deposit back?
When your rental contract ends or when you cancel your rental agreement because you have found a new place, and you have not damaged the property, the landlord is required to pay back your rental security deposit.
Is your property furnished? You should request an itemised inventory list if one is not provided.
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