Accommodation in the Cayman Islands

There is a large selection of apartments and condos available for long-term rent in the Cayman Islands. Expats will find that costs vary substantially, depending on location and proximity to areas such as George Town and the Seven Mile beachfront. Many places come with facilities such as tennis courts and pools.

Rental accommodation is relatively easy to find, and annual leases are generally available. During the tourist season (November and February) it can be more difficult to secure an annual lease. Monthly costs vary depending on whether the place is furnished or unfurnished and its location and size.

Types of accommodation in the Cayman Islands

There are various types of accommodation for expats to choose from when renting, including houses, condominiums, apartment complexes and rooms/apartments in larger houses. The most common types of properties available are two- and three-bedroom condos and townhouses, which are popular for long-term renting.

Household goods can be purchased locally, while most landlords provide a full range of crockery, cutlery and other household items if the place is furnished. Most accommodation in the Cayman Islands is furnished.

Finding accommodation in the Cayman Islands

There are real estate agents situated across the islands who can help househunters. Alternatively, there are many websites advertising property online, which can be useful for expats. Expats should act quickly when signing a lease, as competition for rental properties can be quite fierce.

Renting accommodation in the Cayman Islands

Those working on the island for two to three years more often than not rent property rather than buy. Thanks to the transient nature of expat stays on the islands, the property market is well run.

Once expats have decided on suitable accommodation, they must approach the landlord as soon as possible to negotiate a mutually beneficial lease agreement.

Making an application

The first step in the rental process after finding the desired accommodation is to file an application. Prospective tenants can either do this directly with the landlord or via an estate agent. The landlord or agency will perform various checks, after which a lease is signed between the landlord and tenant.

Leases

A standard rental contract is usually valid for a year, with the option to renew at the end of the initial term. In the Cayman Islands, tenants can sometimes negotiate shorter lease agreements, but this is typically at the discretion of individual landlords. If the property is furnished, a full inventory of items will need to be drawn up and signed.

Deposits

Tenants will have to pay a deposit, usually equivalent to one month’s rent, in addition to the first month’s rent to secure the rental agreement. This deposit belongs to the tenant and must be paid back at the end of the lease. Unless the landlord deems it necessary to make use of some or all of the deposit for breakages, outstanding rent, or utilities that the tenant may be liable for as per the contractual agreement.

Utilities

Renters need to carefully check the terms of their lease to determine which utilities are included and what additional expenses they would be liable for. Usually, utilities such as gas, water, electricity and internet usually aren't covered by the landlord, but this varies between properties.