Are you looking to rent a house? Whether you’re searching for your first rental or upgrading to a bigger and better space, the decision to rent a house is a significant one that requires careful consideration. With so many options and factors to take into account, it’s essential to know the crucial considerations that can help make the renting process smoother and more successful. From budgeting and location to safety and neighborhood vibes, there are several critical factors to keep in mind when renting a house in Sri Lanka. In this post, we’ll explore the essential factors to know and consider before renting a house in Sri Lanka, so you can make an informed decision and find the perfect home that meets your needs and lifestyle.
Location
The location of your rental house can make or break your experience. Are you looking for a place that’s conveniently located near your workplace or school, or do you want to be close to the beach or other attractions? Keep in mind that certain neighborhoods may offer better security, while others may be more affordable. Make sure to do your research to find the perfect location that suits your needs. Additionally, when looking for a house to rent in Sri Lanka, consider factors such as how far the nearest main road is and whether there is relatively easy access to public transportation hubs such as bus stops and train stations. If you’re going to be commuting to work on a daily basis, you should definitely factor in the amount of time you’ll be spending on the road to and from work.
Budget
One of the most critical aspects of renting a house in Sri Lanka is setting a practical budget. The costs of rent, utilities, and other expenses can accumulate quickly, so it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your financial limits before making a commitment. Taking the time to factor in all costs associated with renting can prevent you from encountering unexpected financial difficulties down the road. By setting a realistic budget, you can confidently search for a rental home that fits your needs and lifestyle without compromising your financial security.
Size and layout
Sri Lanka offers a range of houses with different sizes and layouts, so it’s important to determine your needs before making a decision. Are you looking for a spacious house with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, or do you prefer a cozy space that’s easier to maintain? Keep in mind that the size and layout will affect the rent, so choose wisely.
Amenities
Sri Lanka is known for its hot and humid weather, so it’s important to consider amenities such as air conditioning and hot water. Additionally, reliable internet connectivity is essential for work or entertainment, and a good security system can give you peace of mind. Be sure to ask about the amenities available in the house before signing a lease.
Maintenance and other responsibilities
When it comes to renting a home, it’s crucial to discuss and establish responsibilities for maintenance and repairs before signing the lease. While some landlords take care of all repairs, others may leave certain tasks to the tenant. To avoid any misunderstandings or unexpected expenses, it’s important to come to a mutual agreement on who will be responsible for what. If you notice any damage or issues, it’s crucial to notify the landlord promptly and take photos to document the problem. Whether you end up paying for repairs or not, it’s crucial to communicate with your landlord and let them know once the issue is resolved and the home is in good shape.
Lease terms
The lease terms are crucial when renting a house in Sri Lanka. Consider the length of the lease, whether there are rent increases, and any early termination penalties. It’s essential to read the rental agreement carefully to ensure that you understand all the terms and conditions.
Landlord or property manager
Your landlord or property manager can greatly impact your rental experience. A responsive and responsible landlord or property manager can help address any issues that may arise during your tenancy. So make sure you gauge whether your landlord or property manager is someone who is courteous and accommodating enough to liaise and deal with in a mutually beneficial manner, before you enter into a rental agreement with them.
Inspection
Before signing a lease, conduct a thorough inspection of the rental property. Check for any damages or repairs needed, and take photos or videos as evidence. This can help you avoid any disputes over damages or repairs at the end of your lease.
Legal obligations
Ensure that all legal obligations are met before renting a house in Sri Lanka. Verify the ownership of the property, ensure that the rental agreement is legal and binding, and comply with any other legal requirements. This can help you avoid any legal issues down the line.
Negotiation
Don’t be afraid to negotiate the rent, lease terms, and other conditions of the rental agreement. Landlords may be willing to offer discounts or other incentives, especially if you’re a long-term tenant. Remember, you’re not just renting a house, you’re entering into a business agreement, so it’s important to negotiate a deal that works for both parties.
Additional things to consider when renting a house in Sri Lanka
How much is the security deposit?
In order to land the rental property, the landlord will request a security deposit. This protects them if you don’t leave the property in the same condition as when you first moved in. The deposit can be up to 6 months’ worth of rent – but this may vary depending on certain factors and it may also be negotiable.
Is customization allowed?
It’s important to check with your landlord or property manager what level of customization is allowed. This can include hanging picture frames, changing wallpapers, installing blinds or curtains, or nailing something to the wall. It’s important to be clear about what you want to do and how you plan to do it to avoid any accidental damage to the property or lease violations. Take pictures of the property before making any changes to avoid disputes with your landlord over damages or repairs when you move out.
How does the garbage disposal work?
Although a minor detail that we often overlook or forget to consider, the matter of garbage disposal is something that definitely needs to be paid attention to when looking for the perfect house for rent in Sri Lanka. Make sure to ask your landlord or the residents on that particular street or area about how often the garbage collection truck comes by, how garbage segregation is done and where you can stow away the garbage until it’s taken away.
What are the utility bills like?
Before you move in or decide to close the deal on a house for rent in Sri Lanka, make sure to get a rough idea of what the water and electricity bills will be like, so that you can have a clear picture of what your monthly utility costs will be. You can either get these details from the landlord or current/past tenants (if you’re able to get in touch with them). Another wise thing you can do is discuss with your landlord whether there are any plumbing or electrical issues that need to be fixed or optimized in order to ensure that there is no wastage which could result in needlessly high water and electricity bills.
Is it pet friendly?
If you have pets, you should communicate this to the landlord from the get-go. Some property owners don’t particularly like to deal with prospective tenants that have pets, and this is due to the damage potential to the property. However, in most cases, an agreement can be made, especially if you’re willing to be flexible on the rental price. If you have small, well-trained pets, chances are the landlord won’t have an issue with it. Either way, it’s best to mention this early on to avoid disappointment.
Is the area affected by power and water outages?
Some areas in Sri Lanka are more susceptible to power and water outages than others. So it’s a smart move to do a bit of research on this before you say yes to a house for rent in Sri Lanka. You can ask the landlord whether there are frequent power and/or water cuts in the area, and to be extra sure, you could chat about this with the residents of that area too. This could make or break the deal for you, particularly if you or someone in your household works from home, or if you’re running a home-based business that requires a consistent supply of electricity and/or water.
Final takeaway
All in all, renting a house in Sri Lanka can be an exciting yet challenging process, but by keeping these crucial factors in mind, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and find the perfect home for you. From budgeting and location to safety and neighborhood vibes, it’s essential to take all these factors into account before making your final decision. Remember to do your research, ask questions, and seek expert advice if necessary. By taking these steps, you’ll increase your chances of finding a comfortable and convenient home that meets your needs and lifestyle.
Good luck with your house hunting!
FAQs:
How can I find a house for rent in Sri Lanka?
ikman has a variety of ad listings for houses on rent. You can filter the houses available to rent based on location, price, house size, number of bedrooms, and number of baths.
What is the best place to rent a house?
Before choosing a rental house, make a list of all the important amenities you’re looking for. Consider the distance to the nearest restaurant, bus or train stations, schools, colleges, ATMs, and supermarkets. If you commute to work every day, then you might want to add that to the top of your list.
How long should I live in a rented house?
You can rent a house if you can’t afford to buy a house, or if you don’t find it necessary to own a house depending on your lifestyle choices. Depending on the contract with your landlord, you should be able to extend your tenancy if you take care of the house well and honour the contractual agreement between you and your landlord.
What should I look for in a rental home?
Before renting a home for the long term, you should check for water and electricity supply and waste disposal facilities. Check if the house is damaged to make sure you don’t have to pay for damages you are not responsible for. Conduct thorough research on the neighbourhood as well.
Where is it cheapest to rent a house in Sri Lanka?
Rental prices may vary depending on several factors including location, rooms available, and whether the house is furnished or unfurnished. ikman helps you find a house that fits all your requirements, including your budget.
What are the typical lease terms for renting a house?
The typical lease term for a house rental is one year, although it can vary depending on the landlord’s preferences. Some landlords may offer shorter leases, such as six months, while others may offer a month-to-month rental agreement.
What are the typical costs associated with renting a house?
The typical costs associated with renting a house include the security deposit, the first month’s rent and any pet-related fees or deposits. The renter may also need to pay for utilities and association fees. It’s best to read the lease agreement carefully.
