What to Know Before Renting in the Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands attracts global attention with its stunning beaches, comfortable apartments, low cost of living, and tax benefits. The mesmerising islands are also famous for their growing real estate rental market, which attracts the attention of investors across the world.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is approximately between 1,861.11 KY$ — 2,288.89 KY$ per month, while for 3-bedroom family apartments, it may range from 3,875.00 KY$ — 4,762.50 KY$ per month depending on location and amenities.

George Town Center is one the most expensive locations in the Cayman Islands, while the ones which are away from it, i.e., North Side and East End are affordable locations.

Many people fail to observe significant details before renting an apartment in the Cayman Islands, which may result in unwanted fees or disputes.

What to Know Before Renting an Apartment — Main Trends

• Rentals are in increasing demand, particularly in cities such as George Town and West Bay.
• Furnished rentals are trending in the expat market, with most long-term apartments fully furnished.
• Energy efficiency is taking precedence as tenants look for apartments with solar panels or efficient HVAC systems.
• Remote workers and digital nomads are creating demand for short-term and flexible lease periods.
• Stringent tenant protection legislation protects rent increases and security deposits. Landlords and Tenants Act and the Registered Land Act are influential laws governing the rental market.
• Property management firms are prevalent and offer speedy repair and conflict resolution for tenants.

8 Critical Things to Know Before Renting an Apartment in Cayman Islands

The following are 8 things to know before renting an apartment in the Cayman Islands:

1. Inspect the Interior and Exterior

Before signing a lease, inspect floors, ceilings, and walls closely. Look for:

• Watermarks, especially near ceilings or at the back of furniture. Such marks could indicate leaks.
• Mould or cracks are signs of ventilation or structural problems.
• Inspect all doors and windows and ensure they open, close, and lock correctly. Faulty locks can be a security hazard.
• Check the property’s roof, drainage, lawns, and grounds. A quick walk-through with your phone camera can save you later.

Pro Tip: Insist on obtaining a move-in checklist from the landlord or property manager. Taking pictures of damages before occupying the apartment can prevent security deposit-related issues.

2. HVAC System — Cooling and Air Quality

Due to the Cayman environment, a durable and functioning Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning unit is mandatory. You must examine:

• The consistency of the HVAC service and its energy efficiency. This can help you prevent hefty electricity bills.
• Ceiling fans or other cooling sources.
• Proper functioning of the AC unit. Check if it cools well, and doesn’t have odors or signs of mould.

Poorly ventilated homes are one of the most common grievances of renters in humid places such as the Cayman Islands.

3. Water Pressure & Drainage

Run all faucets, flush toilets, and test the water heater. Check for:

• Slow drainage problems or water issues in sinks and bathtubs.
• Low water pressure, particularly in bathrooms on higher floors.
• Leakages or damp cabinets under the sink.

The Cayman Water Authority recommends that renters must check for evidence of plumbing, particularly in structures more than 15 years old.

4. Electrical Systems and Lighting

Check that all power outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures are working. You should also:

• Check light switches in each room.
• Inspect for exposed wiring or overloaded sockets.
• Inquire about the average utility bill for comparable tenants.

Cayman houses need to meet the Planning Department’s electrical safety requirements. The inspections should be up to date, and there should be an adequate number of electrical outlets.

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