Status: Costa Rican Resource is an independent reference guide, not a government site, law firm or agency. Procedures are marked pending qualified review and point to official sources. A few links go to partners that may pay us a commission. Details.
Last checked by our editors: November 3, 2026.
- Visit during the day and at night; note noise, water pressure and mobile coverage.
- Ask who the registered owner is and whether the person signing can legally lease it; your lawyer can check the registry.
- Get the contract in writing in a language you understand (translate it if needed).
- Confirm term, rent, currency, deposit, notice period and what is included.
- List who pays electricity, water, internet, garbage and maintenance.
- Photograph the condition and sign an inventory.
- Keep receipts for every payment.
Residential leases are regulated by Costa Rica’s Ley General de Arrendamientos Urbanos y Suburbanos. Have a lawyer review the contract.