Renting in Cyprus: Lease Agreement, Deposit and Tenant Rights
How to review a tenancy agreement, stamp it on time, handle the deposit and what to do when the landlord or tenant breaks the contract.
Review the lease before signing
Check the parties, rent and indexation, term, notice and break clauses, who pays utilities and repairs, and the inventory. Confirm that the landlord is the registered owner.
Stamp the agreement and document the deposit
Rental agreements should be stamped within the statutory period after signing; unstamped contracts risk penalties and weaker enforceability. Record the deposit amount, how it is held and the conditions for its return.
Resolve disputes: notice, mediation, court
For arrears, damage or an unlawful eviction attempt, start with a written notice referring to the contract clause. If that fails, your advocate can propose mediation or file a claim; a landlord may not lawfully evict without a court order.
FAQ
Can the landlord keep my deposit?
Only as the lease allows, typically for unpaid rent, bills or damage beyond normal wear. Keep the move-in inventory and photos; they are the main evidence if you contest a deduction.