How to rent a property in Bahrain

Apr 10, 2017

How to rent a property in Bahrain

A guide for foreigners and expats leasing real estate in Bahrain, in areas such as Juffair, Amwaj Islands, Durrat Al Bahrain, Reef Island, Seef, Saar, Riffa, Diyar Al Muharraq and Bahrain Bay.

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Very important information to read:

This article is intended as a preliminary guide only and refers to some but not all elements required to consider in detail prior to starting any property dealings or due diligence. Property dealings are often complex, especially in foreign countries and we highly recommend you seek independent professional advice... read more...

Bahrain offers foreigners options for living including within and outside of gated compounds. Prices will vary depending on location and the choice of old or new apartments and villas plus which amenities such as pools, gardens and balconies are included. Villas tend to be semi-furnished including most appliances and apartments tend to be fully furnished. If you prefer to have an unfurnished property, you may be able to negotiate the removal of the furniture through the agent.
Find areas to consider here.

How to find a property to rent in Bahrain
Many international companies offer housing arrangements for their staff. But if you will be finding your own accommodation, using the services of a real estate agent is the easiest way as they have good local knowledge and can show you listings they have available. They can also explain inclusions and exclusions of the lease such as air-conditioning and utility charges. Most compounds have a sales office and the representative there can show you what is available for rent and what facilities are on offer.

Inclusions
The rent on fully-furnished property usually includes the Municipality tax (10% of the monthly rental), electricity, water, satellite TV, internet and sometimes weekly housekeeping. Semi-furnished properties do not usually cover these costs. Examine the lease to ensure you have an understanding of what is and is not included.

How to rent a property in Bahrain
Once you find a suitable property, the agent or sales office will organise a lease which will usually start within 3-4 weeks of signing an agreement. Most leases in Bahrain are set for a one-year term with an option to renew. You can negotiate to include a ‘Diplomatic Clause’ into the lease which allows you to break the lease with one month’s notice, in case you are required to leave the island. The property must be left in the same condition as at the beginning of the lease. You are responsible for any minor repairs but must not make alterations without the knowledge and consent of the landlord.

Fees associated with renting a property in Bahrain

3-month’s rent is usually due up front and subsequent rent payments are usually paid monthly or quarterly in advance.
Some landlords also require a one-month’s rent payment as a security deposit, which is refundable at the end of the lease.
The landlord cannot increase the rent until after a 2-year period, and this is capped at 5%. The agent’s commission is paid by the landlord.
Municipality tax (10%) of the monthly rental, only on fully-furnished properties

Water and electricity
If utilities are not included in your lease, you need to register with the Ministry of Electricity and Water and provide the signed lease, and your CPR (Bahrain ID) card. CPR cards are available from the Central Informatics Organization and to apply, you need to provide:

Employee (or spouse) passport
Sponsorship letter stating names of dependents
Marriage certificate (for spouse) and birth certificate (for children)
US$26 fee per applicant

Telephone, internet and satellite TV

These utilities are available from a variety of providers such as:

Batelco

Nue Tel

And for viewing TV from your home country, you can install a set top box from TV From Home with prices starting at US$208 (approx at time of publishing, Feb 2017).

Source:

Impact Estate

Just Landed