Renting an Apartment in Beirut: What You Need to Know

Whether you are moving to Beirut for work, studies or family, renting is usually the easiest way to start. Here is what to expect, and the questions worth asking before you sign a lease.

Typical lease terms

Most residential leases in Beirut run for one year and can be renewed. Rent is quoted in US dollars, and many landlords ask for several months — sometimes the whole year — to be paid in advance. Payment in advance can also be a good negotiating point: landlords are often more flexible on price when they are paid upfront.

Furnished or unfurnished?

Furnished apartments let you move in immediately and are popular with professionals and newcomers; unfurnished apartments usually cost less per square metre and suit longer stays. Ask for a written inventory of furniture and appliances, signed by both sides, when you take a furnished home.

Electricity, water and building charges

Public electricity is limited, so most buildings rely on a private generator. Ask how many amperes the apartment has, how many hours the generator covers, and how it is billed. Also check:

• Water supply — is there a well, a water tank, or regular deliveries?
• Monthly building charges (concierge, cleaning, elevator, generator maintenance) — who pays them?
• Whether the elevator runs on the generator during power cuts.
• Solar panels or a UPS, which can cut your bills considerably.

Deposit and agency commission

Landlords commonly ask for a security deposit, often equal to one month’s rent, returned at the end of the lease if the apartment is in good condition. When you rent through an agency, the commission is agreed in advance — on our current rental listings it is one month’s rent.

Before you sign

• Visit at different times of day to check noise, light and traffic.
• Photograph the apartment’s condition on move-in day.
• Make sure the lease states the rent, payment schedule, duration, renewal terms and who pays for repairs.
• Confirm parking — whether a space is included and where.

See all apartments for rent, or tell us what you need and we will send you matching options.