Renting a home involves much more than just paying the monthly rent. There are additional costs that often raise questions for both tenants and landlords. At Rightplace, we understand the importance of knowing community expenses, utility bills, and other charges to avoid misunderstandings and help you better plan your budget. In this guide, we explain the main additional costs in a rental and how to manage them.
What are community expenses and what are the common costs?
Community expenses refer to the costs allocated for the maintenance and shared services of a building or residential complex, such as cleaning, security, maintenance of common areas, and, in some cases, facilities like a pool or gym. These expenses are shared among all property owners or tenants.
In general, common community expenses include:
- Cleaning and maintenance of common areas.
- Electricity and water for shared spaces.
- Gardening and landscaping care.
- Security services or a doorman, if applicable.
These costs are usually covered by the landlord, although some rental contracts specify that the tenant must pay part or all of these expenses. It is essential to review this point in the lease agreement to understand exactly what is included and avoid surprises.
Who pays for utility setups in a rental?
One of the most confusing topics is who pays for utility setups in a rental. This refers to the initial activation costs of services like electricity, gas, water, and internet, especially when the property is new or has been unoccupied for some time.
In most cases:
- The landlord handles the utility setup when it involves a newly constructed property.
- The tenant usually covers the costs of reconnection or name changes when the service already exists but is under the previous owner’s name.
If you want to learn how to set up electricity and water in a property, we recommend checking out this Fotocasa article (in spanish), which explains the necessary steps to activate these services.
This detail should also be clearly stated in the rental contract. At Rightplace, we always recommend reviewing the terms regarding utilities before signing, as some landlords cover these costs while others expect the tenant to do so.
Other additional costs to consider
Beyond community expenses and utility setups, other costs may be relevant when renting a home. Some of these include:
- Property tax (IBI): This annual tax is typically paid by the landlord, though it is advisable to confirm this. For more information on property taxes and related costs, check out this article.
- Appliance maintenance and repairs: Generally, the landlord covers necessary repairs due to regular use, while the tenant is responsible for damages caused by misuse.
- Home insurance: While the landlord must have home insurance, tenants may consider taking out insurance for their personal belongings, especially for long-term rentals.
Key clauses in the rental contract
To avoid misunderstandings, it is crucial that the rental contract specifies all these costs and responsibilities. Make sure the contract includes:
- Who pays for community expenses and utilities.
- Details about possible increases in community expenses.
- Responsibility for maintenance services and repairs.
This level of detail ensures a clear agreement, avoiding future issues.
Tips for managing costs when renting
- Ask and review: Before signing the contract, make sure to ask and understand who will cover each cost.
- Organize a monthly budget: Including additional costs in your monthly budget will help you manage your finances more effectively.
- Seek professional advice: If you have doubts about cost-related clauses, at Rightplace, we help you understand every detail, ensuring you feel confident at every step of the rental process.
Conclusion
Understanding what community expenses are and how to manage additional rental costs is essential for living comfortably and without financial worries. Additional costs like utilities, maintenance, and insurance can significantly impact your budget, so careful planning and a well-defined contract will help you stay in control of your finances. Before renting, make sure you’ve reviewed all terms and conditions and are fully informed about who covers each cost.
At Rightplace, we’re here to help you find the ideal home and ensure you understand all aspects of your rental agreement. Visit us on our website and contact us to receive personalized advice at every step of the rental process. Our team of experts will be delighted to guide you and offer solutions tailored to your needs, so you can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience.
