Manila Rent Tips: 7 Must-Check Details Before Signing Your Lease
- bedandgoinc
- 10月6日
- 読了時間: 3分
October 6, 2025
Renting a condo or apartment in Manila can be exciting—but it also requires caution. Whether you're an expat relocating for work, a young professional moving closer to the CBD, or a family looking for convenience, signing a lease without proper due diligence can lead to costly mistakes.
Before you put pen to paper, it’s crucial to review the lease agreement, inspect the property thoroughly, and understand the legal and financial responsibilities that come with renting in Manila. Below are 7 must-check details every tenant should review to ensure a smooth, secure, and stress-free rental experience.
1. Verify the Lease Contract Thoroughly
Your lease contract is the legal backbone of your tenancy. Read each clause carefully—especially those on rent amount, payment schedules, security deposits, penalties, maintenance responsibilities, and termination.
Make sure the landlord’s full legal name, property address, contract duration, and agreed monthly rent are clearly stated. Avoid vague wording or handwritten insertions that aren’t properly signed by both parties. If you’re unsure, it’s wise to have the contract reviewed by a legal professional familiar with Philippine leasing laws.
2. Check the Lease Duration and Renewal Terms
Many Manila leases run for 6 months to 1 year, with options to renew. Confirm whether renewal is automatic or requires advance notice, and check for clauses about rent escalation after the first term.
Some landlords may include fixed annual rent increases—typically 5% to 10%—while others may renegotiate based on market conditions. Knowing these terms upfront helps you budget and avoid unexpected hikes later on.
3. Clarify All Payments and Hidden Fees
The agreed monthly rent isn’t the only cost to consider. Ask about additional charges such as association dues, utilities, parking fees, and move-in charges. Some condos in Manila, especially in Makati or BGC, have significant monthly dues that tenants must shoulder.
Also, confirm how many months of advance rent and security deposit are required. Standard practice is 1 month advance and 2 months deposit, but some landlords may request more. Always request official receipts for all payments.
4. Inspect the Property Carefully
Before signing, schedule a thorough inspection of the unit. Check for working appliances, air conditioning, plumbing, lighting, and overall cleanliness. Look for signs of water leaks, mold, or pest issues—common concerns in older buildings.
Take photos or videos during the inspection and document existing issues in writing, attaching this as an annex to your lease. This protects you from being charged later for pre-existing damage.
5. Review Termination and Exit Clauses
Life circumstances change, so it's essential to know how to end the lease early if needed. Check the notice period required for early termination (usually 30–60 days) and any applicable penalties.
Some contracts include lock-in periods, where you cannot terminate before a certain number of months without forfeiting the deposit. Make sure you understand these terms to avoid disputes when you eventually move out.
6. Know Your Tenant Rights Under Manila Laws
The Rent Control Act (RA 9653, as extended) applies to certain rental properties, placing caps on annual rent increases and protecting tenants from arbitrary eviction. Even if your unit is outside this law’s price bracket, you still have rights under the Civil Code, including due notice before eviction and protection against unlawful charges.
Understanding local laws ensures you can negotiate fairly and respond confidently if problems arise during your lease term.
7. Confirm Landlord and Property Legitimacy
Lastly, ensure that the person you're dealing with is the legal owner or authorized lessor. Ask for a copy of the property title or authorization letter if dealing with a representative.
Unfortunately, rental scams do occur in Manila, especially with online listings. Always verify ownership through proper documentation and, when possible, deal with licensed brokers or reputable agencies to minimize risk.
Signing a lease in Manila is more than just agreeing on rent—it’s entering a legal and financial commitment. By reviewing these 7 key details—from the contract to the property condition and legal protections—you safeguard yourself against unpleasant surprises and ensure a smooth tenancy.
Whether you're renting in Makati, BGC, Ortigas, or Pasay, being informed gives you the power to negotiate better, avoid hidden costs, and enjoy your new home with peace of mind. Take the time to check everything before you sign—your future self will thank you.
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