Renting a home in Cabo San Lucas, San José del Cabo, or East Cape is exciting — but signing a lease agreement without fully understanding it can cost you thousands of pesos in lost deposits, unexpected rent increases, or even eviction disputes.
Whether you’re:
✔ A Mexican family relocating from another state,
✔ A local upgrading to a better community or downsizing to save money, or
✔ An expat (new or established) planning a long-term rental in Los Cabos,
…your lease agreement is your strongest legal protection as a tenant. It is the only document recognized under Mexican law that guarantees your rights, outlines the landlord’s obligations, and protects your security deposit.
This complete 2025 guide is designed to help tenants avoid costly mistakes. Here you’ll learn everything you need to know: what to check before signing, how to protect your deposit, your legal rights as a tenant in Baja California Sur, negotiation strategies, and what steps to take if problems arise.
🔗 Landlord Version of this Guide: Want to know how landlords protect themselves? Read our companion article Understanding Lease Agreements in Cabo – The Complete Landlord Guide to see the other side of the rental process.
✅ 1. Why a Lease Agreement Matters in Cabo
Your lease agreement is not just a formality — it is a binding legal contract under Mexican law. It defines your rights as a tenant, the landlord’s obligations, and the terms under which you are allowed to occupy the property.
⚠️ Important: In Mexico, verbal agreements carry almost no legal weight. If something isn’t written into the lease — even if the landlord promised it — it doesn’t legally exist.
Why This Matters in Cabo
Many properties in Cabo are owned by foreign landlords or absentee owners who rely on basic templates or agents. These contracts sometimes omit key tenant protections, making it essential that you read carefully and request amendments if needed.
A lease also protects you from:
✔ Being accused of damage you didn’t cause.
✔ Sudden rent increases.
✔ Illegal eviction attempts.
✔ Losing your deposit unfairly.
Common Problems When Tenants Don’t Review Their Lease Carefully
• Losing your security deposit because you didn’t document pre-existing damage.
• Unexpected rent increases after a few months because no fixed rate was stated.
• Pets denied, even if the landlord verbally agreed, because there’s no written approval.
• Paying for major repairs (roof leaks, plumbing issues) that are legally the landlord’s responsibility.
• Being forced to move out early because the lease didn’t guarantee renewal terms or notice periods.
Mini-Case Example: Real Tenant Problem in Cabo
Ana, a tenant in El Tezal, signed a lease without documenting the property’s condition. At move-out, the landlord claimed she caused scratches on furniture and kept her entire $30,000 MXN deposit. Without photos or written proof, Ana had no legal way to dispute it.
✔ Key Takeaway for Tenants
✅ Never sign in a rush.
✅ Review every clause carefully, ask questions, and request written amendments if needed.
✅ Document everything — your deposit, the property’s condition, and all agreements.
A lease is your only legal shield in Cabo. Treat it as seriously as you would a property purchase agreement.
✅ 2. What Every Lease in Cabo Must Include
A lease agreement in Cabo should clearly spell out every detail of your tenancy. If it’s not written, you cannot enforce it legally. Before signing, confirm that these 10 key elements are included and correctly worded:
1. Basic Details (Essential for Legal Validity)
✔ Full legal names of all tenant(s) and the landlord (as shown on official IDs).
✔ Complete property address (including unit, building, and development name).
✔ Lease start and end date (with exact day, month, and year).
✔ Rent amount, currency (MXN or USD), and payment method (bank transfer, cash, or invoice).
💡 Tenant Tip: Always request proof of payment (bank transfer or receipt). If the landlord issues invoices (facturas), ask upfront — some only rent informally.
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2. Payments & Deposits (Protects You Financially)
✔ Security deposit — Usually 1 month’s rent, but furnished or luxury homes often require 2 months to cover furniture/appliance damage.
✔ Rent due date — Typically monthly, in advance (due within the first 3–5 days of each month).
✔ Late payment penalties — Ask if they apply and how much (Mexican law limits abusive penalties).
✔ Services included — Must specify if HOA fees, water, trash, or internet are included.
💡 Tenant Tip: Many gated communities include security, trash, or even basic internet in the HOA fees. If included, ensure it’s explicitly written in the lease — not just verbally promised.
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3. Property Condition & Repairs (Avoid Deposit Disputes)
✔ The lease must state the property is delivered in habitable and safe condition.
✔ Clearly define who pays for what repairs:
• Structural issues (roof leaks, major plumbing or electrical failures) → Landlord’s responsibility.
• Minor repairs (light bulbs, clogged drains, small appliance repairs) → Tenant’s responsibility.
✔ Permission for modifications — Painting walls, installing air conditioners, or adding shelves requires written approval to avoid being charged for “damage” later.
💡 Tenant Tip: Request an inventory list if the property is furnished, including photos of furniture and appliances.
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4. Rent Increases & Renewal (Protect Against Sudden Hikes)
✔ Standard annual increases in Cabo: 5–7% (negotiate for less if possible).
✔ Check if the lease automatically renews or if you need to sign a new agreement after the term ends.
✔ If you want a fixed rent for multiple years, negotiate and add it in writing before signing.
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5. Pet Policy (Must Be in Writing)
✔ If you have pets, get written approval, including type, size, and breed.
✔ Some gated communities have strict rules (e.g., no large dogs or only one pet per unit).
⚠️ Warning: Verbal “pet approvals” are meaningless. Without written consent, you risk fines or even eviction.
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6. Subleasing & Guests (Avoid HOA Fines)
✔ Many leases prohibit subleasing or long-term guests.
✔ If you expect family or friends to visit for weeks or months, confirm this is allowed. Some HOAs in Cabo fine tenants for excessive visitors or Airbnb-style subleasing.
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7. Early Termination & Penalties (Understand Your Exit Options)
✔ Notice period: Usually 30–60 days written notice before leaving.
✔ Penalty for breaking the lease early: Most landlords keep the deposit or require paying 1–2 months’ rent as compensation.
✔ 💡 Negotiation Tip: If you might need flexibility, request a clause allowing early exit with reduced penalties in exchange for giving more notice (e.g., 90 days).
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Additional Clauses Tenants Often Forget
✅ Parking rights: Confirm you have an assigned parking spot — some HOAs allow tenants only visitor parking.
✅ Access to common areas: Gyms, pools, and BBQ areas should be explicitly included if part of the rent.
✅ Hurricane & natural disaster damage: Clarify who is responsible for repairs after storms (generally, landlords cover structural damage).
✅ Entry rights: Specify that landlords must give reasonable notice before entering, except for emergencies.
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✔ Key Takeaway for Tenants
✅ Do not rely on verbal agreements. Everything — from parking to pets to included utilities — should be clearly written in the lease.
✅ Review the contract with a real estate advisor or attorney if you’re unsure.
✅ 3. Your Rights vs. Landlord’s Rights in Cabo
Understanding tenant and landlord rights in Cabo is essential to avoid misunderstandings and protect yourself from unfair practices. Mexican law (Código Civil) grants both parties specific rights and obligations. If you know them, you can prevent abuse and handle disputes confidently.
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Tenant Rights in Cabo
✔ 1. To receive the property in habitable and safe condition
The landlord must deliver the property in livable condition, with functioning plumbing, electricity, and structural safety. If the property is not habitable, you can demand repairs or even refuse to move in until fixed.
✔ 2. To peaceful enjoyment of the property
The landlord cannot disturb your privacy or enter without proper notice, except in emergencies (fire, flooding, etc.).
✔ 3. To get your deposit refunded if no damages exist
Your security deposit must be returned when you leave, minus documented damages or unpaid bills. Normal wear and tear (desgaste natural) — such as faded paint or slightly worn appliances — cannot be deducted legally.
✔ 4. To written notice before rent increases or termination
Landlords must notify you in writing of any rent increases, terminations, or changes to the agreement. Sudden rent hikes during a fixed-term lease are illegal unless specifically written in the contract.
✔ 5. To request necessary repairs
You can request the landlord to make essential repairs (roof leaks, electrical issues, plumbing problems). If ignored, you can file a complaint with PROFECO or deduct the cost from your rent (only if legally documented).
✔ 6. To a copy of the signed lease
You have the right to a signed copy of your lease agreement — never accept a verbal agreement or move in without one.
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Landlord Rights in Cabo
✔ 1. To receive rent on time
You are legally obligated to pay rent by the due date agreed in the lease. Late payments can result in penalties or legal action if stated in the contract.
✔ 2. To deduct from the deposit only for proven damages
Landlords can deduct money only for documented damages beyond normal wear (e.g., broken windows, missing furniture, or deep wall holes). They must provide receipts or proof of repair costs if you request it.
✔ 3. To enforce HOA and community rules
If your lease is in a gated community, you must follow HOA regulations (e.g., noise restrictions, pet rules, visitor limits). Violations can result in fines or, in severe cases, eviction.
✔ 4. To show the property to potential buyers (with notice)
If the property is for sale, the landlord can schedule visits, but must give you reasonable notice and respect your privacy.
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💡 Tenant Tip – How to Protect Your Rights
✅ Always communicate in writing (WhatsApp or email) for repairs or disputes.
✅ Keep a paper trail: receipts, transfer confirmations, and inspection photos.
✅ If your rights are violated, PROFECO (Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor) can mediate disputes for free.
✅ 4. How to Protect Your Deposit
The #1 source of tenant-landlord disputes in Cabo is the security deposit. Tenants often lose it simply because they didn’t document the property properly at move-in or failed to follow legal procedures at move-out.
Follow these four essential steps to protect yourself:
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1. Do a Detailed Move-In Inspection (Acta de Entrega-Recepción)
✔ Create a written checklist with the landlord or property manager before you move in.
✔ List the condition of walls, floors, doors, windows, appliances, furniture, and even light switches.
✔ If possible, sign an “Acta de Entrega-Recepción” (formal inspection document used in Mexico). Both parties should keep a signed copy.
💡 Tenant Tip: If the landlord doesn’t provide one, you can write a simple document yourself and have them sign it.
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2. Take Photo & Video Evidence
✔ Take clear photos and videos of every room on move-in day, including close-ups of existing damage (scratches, stains, cracks).
✔ Use WhatsApp timestamps by sending the photos to yourself or a trusted contact — Mexican courts and PROFECO accept this as valid proof.
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3. Keep Receipts for Any Repairs You Pay
✔ If you replace a lightbulb, fix a broken faucet, or hire maintenance workers, save receipts and notify the landlord.
✔ If the landlord agrees to reimburse you, get it in writing (WhatsApp or email).
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4. Schedule a Pre-Move-Out Walkthrough
✔ 30–60 days before moving out, request a walkthrough with the landlord.
✔ Agree on the property’s condition and any repairs you should handle before leaving.
✔ On move-out day, repeat the inspection and take new photos/videos.
💡 Tenant Tip: Never hand over the keys until you’ve documented the final condition. Once you return the keys, disputes become harder to contest.
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Treat the deposit as your money to protect — document everything at the start and the end of your lease.
✅ If a dispute arises, your photos, receipts, and WhatsApp records are your strongest legal defense in Cabo.
✅ 5. What to Do if Problems Arise
Even with a solid lease, problems can happen — from delayed repairs to unfair deposit deductions or even harassment by the landlord. Knowing how to act and document everything is crucial to protect your rights.
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1. Always Communicate in Writing
✔ Use WhatsApp or email for all conversations related to repairs, payments, or complaints.
✔ Confirm verbal agreements in writing (e.g., “As we discussed, you agreed to fix the water heater by Friday”).
✔ Keep all messages in one conversation thread for easier proof.
💡 Tenant Tip: WhatsApp messages with timestamps are valid evidence in Mexico if disputes reach PROFECO or court.
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2. Keep All Financial Records
✔ Save bank transfer receipts and payment confirmations for rent and utilities.
✔ If you pay cash, demand a receipt with the landlord’s signature.
✔ Keep records of any repairs you paid for, with receipts and before/after photos.
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3. Try to Resolve Issues Directly First
✔ Politely remind the landlord of their legal obligations (repairs, deposit return).
✔ Provide a reasonable deadline (e.g., 7–10 business days for repairs).
✔ Offer solutions — for example, propose to hire a repair service and deduct it from rent (only if agreed in writing).
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4. If Unresolved, Send a Formal Written Demand
✔ Write a formal demand letter (Carta de Requerimiento) stating:
• The issue,
• What you are requesting, and
• A deadline to resolve it.
✔ Send it via email or WhatsApp and keep proof of delivery (screenshot of “message delivered”).
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5. Contact PROFECO for Serious Disputes
If the landlord refuses to cooperate:
✔ What is PROFECO?
The Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor (PROFECO) is a government agency that mediates tenant-landlord disputes at no cost.
✔ When to Contact Them:
• Unreturned deposits,
• Illegal rent increases,
• Landlords refusing to make essential repairs.
✔ How to File a Complaint:
• Online: www.profeco.gob.mx (some services are available digitally).
• In-person: The closest PROFECO office is in La Paz, Baja California Sur. You can schedule an appointment by phone before going.
Bring:
• Copy of your lease,
• WhatsApp or email evidence,
• Receipts or payment proofs.
✔ Timeline:
Mediation can take 30–90 days, but most landlords settle once PROFECO contacts them.
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6. Legal Action as a Last Resort
If PROFECO mediation fails and the amount in dispute is significant, you can:
✔ Hire a local attorney specializing in real estate law.
✔ Consider conciliation through a Notary Public if the landlord agrees.
However, legal action can take months or even years, so PROFECO is the preferred first step.
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Document everything. WhatsApp messages, receipts, and photos are your strongest defense.
✅ Act fast. The longer you wait, the harder it is to recover your deposit or force repairs.
✅ Use PROFECO before going to court. It’s faster, free, and often enough to resolve disputes in Cabo.
✅ 6. Legal Requirements to Sign a Lease in Cabo
Landlords in Cabo need to confirm that tenants are legally identifiable and financially reliable before handing over a property. These are the most common requirements — and understanding them helps you prepare your documents in advance and negotiate better lease terms.
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For Mexicans & Local Residents
✔ 1. INE or Passport (Official ID)
• Required to verify your legal identity and confirm that the name in the lease matches official records.
• Always provide a clear, unexpired copy.
✔ 2. Proof of Income
• Usually requested in the form of nómina (pay stubs), bank statements (3–6 months), or recent tax returns.
• Landlords ask for this to ensure you can pay rent consistently.
✔ 3. Fiador (Co-Signer)
• Some landlords, especially for long-term or high-value leases, request a fiador — a local person (often family or close friend) who legally guarantees rent payments.
• The fiador must own property in Mexico and provide proof of ownership.
💡 Tenant Tip: If you don’t have a fiador, you can often negotiate by:
• Offering a larger security deposit (1–2 additional months).
• Paying several months upfront.
• Providing employment contracts or additional income proof.
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For Expats (New & Established)
✔ 1. Passport (Tourist Visa Accepted)
• Most landlords accept just a valid passport for short- and medium-term leases.
• For long-term leases (12+ months), some may request proof of temporary or permanent residence.
✔ 2. Proof of Income or Employment Contract
• Landlords want assurance of stable income, especially with expats on tourist visas.
• Acceptable documents:
• Recent employment contract (local or foreign company),
• Bank statements (3–6 months),
• Proof of pension or retirement income.
✔ 3. Security Deposit + First Month’s Rent
• Standard: 1 month’s rent as deposit + 1 month in advance.
• Furnished or luxury homes often require 2 months’ deposit due to higher-value furniture and appliances.
💡 Tenant Tip for Expats: If you’re new to Cabo and don’t have a local credit history, you can make yourself more attractive to landlords by:
• Offering to pay 3–6 months upfront.
• Providing a reference letter from a previous landlord or employer.
• Showing proof of consistent income from abroad.
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Be ready to provide documentation. Landlords in Cabo — especially in gated communities — are careful with tenant selection.
✅ If you’re missing a required document (like a fiador), compensate with a higher deposit or upfront payment.
✅ Preparing these documents in advance helps you negotiate better terms and secure the property faster.
✅ 7. Negotiating Your Lease Like a Pro
Most tenants don’t realize that many rental terms in Cabo are negotiable — especially if you are reliable, financially stable, and willing to commit long-term. By negotiating smartly, you can secure better prices, favorable conditions, and more flexibility.
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1. Offer Longer Leases (12–24 Months)
✔ Why it works: Landlords prefer stable tenants who won’t leave after a few months. A longer lease means no turnover costs or vacancy risk for them.
✔ What to say: “I’m interested in staying at least 18 months. Would you consider reducing the rent slightly for a longer commitment?”
✔ Expected benefit: Discounts of 5–10% are common for long-term leases, especially in the low season (May–October).
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2. Pay Several Months Upfront
✔ Why it works: Upfront payments give landlords financial security and are especially persuasive if you’re an expat with no local credit history.
✔ What to offer: 3–6 months upfront (or more if you want to secure a premium property).
✔ Bonus: You can often negotiate no rent increases during that period.
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3. Request a Fixed Annual Rent Increase
✔ Why it works: The standard annual increase in Cabo is 5–7%, but good tenants with a strong history can often negotiate a lower or fixed increase.
✔ What to request: A fixed 3–4% increase for multi-year leases or even no increase during the first year.
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4. Negotiate Beyond Rent
Many tenants focus only on price, but other valuable things are negotiable:
✔ HOA Fees or Services: Ask if the landlord can include HOA, internet, or trash service in the rent.
✔ Minor Upgrades: Request small improvements (fresh paint, new light fixtures, or minor repairs) before moving in.
✔ Flexible Early Termination Clause: If your job or visa situation may change, negotiate a clause allowing you to leave early with longer notice instead of losing the full deposit.
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5. Choose the Right Time to Negotiate
✔ Low Season Advantage: From May to October, demand is lower, and landlords are more open to negotiation.
✔ Vacant Properties: If a property has been empty for months, you can push for better terms or lower rent.
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Be prepared: Bring proof of income, references, or offer upfront payments.
✅ Think long-term: Committing to longer leases and stable payments often gets you better deals than trying to negotiate just a lower monthly rent.
✅ Everything is negotiable if you ask politely and show you’re a serious, reliable tenant.
✅ 8. Tenant Move-In Checklist
Your move-in day is your best opportunity to document the property’s condition and clarify all rules. Tenants who skip these steps are the ones who usually lose their deposits or face unexpected issues later.
Follow this step-by-step checklist:
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1. Read & Sign the Lease (Keep a Copy)
✔ Double-check every clause before signing — especially those related to deposit, repairs, pets, and early termination.
✔ Ensure all verbal agreements are written into the lease (e.g., “HOA fees included,” “1 small dog allowed”).
✔ Keep a signed copy (digital or printed) for your records.
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2. Pay the Deposit and First Month’s Rent
✔ Pay only after signing the lease — never before.
✔ Preferred method: Bank transfer (easier to prove in disputes).
✔ Save proof of payment (screenshot, receipt, or factura if issued).
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3. Inspect the Property Thoroughly (Document Everything)
✔ Do a full walkthrough before unpacking anything.
✔ Take photos and videos of every room: walls, floors, ceilings, appliances, bathrooms, and closets.
✔ Focus on pre-existing damage (scratches, stains, cracks).
✔ Send the photos to the landlord via WhatsApp so there’s a timestamped record.
💡 Tenant Tip: Request an Acta de Entrega-Recepción (formal move-in checklist). If the landlord doesn’t provide one, write your own and have them sign it.
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4. Request HOA Rules (If Applicable)
✔ If you’re in a gated community, ask for the full HOA rulebook.
✔ Pay attention to pet policies, visitor restrictions, parking rules, and quiet hours — some HOAs fine tenants for violations, and landlords may deduct these fines from your deposit.
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5. Confirm Utility Setup
✔ Electricity: Note the CFE meter reading on move-in day to avoid being charged for previous consumption.
✔ Water: Confirm if it’s included in the rent or billed separately.
✔ Internet: Check which provider is available (fiber optic or Starlink if you work remotely).
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Treat move-in like a legal procedure, not just a casual step.
✅ The more you document at the start, the fewer disputes you’ll face at move-out.
✅ Tenants who follow this checklist almost never lose their deposits unfairly.
✅ 9. Common Tenant Mistakes to Avoid
Most problems tenants face in Cabo — especially lost deposits, fines, or early evictions — happen because of simple, avoidable mistakes.
Here’s what you must not do:
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❌ 1. Paying Without a Written Lease
✔ Why it’s a mistake: Without a signed contract, you are legally treated as an informal occupant. You won’t have deposit protection, and eviction can be sudden.
✔ Cabo Example: A tenant in San José paid 3 months upfront without a contract; the landlord sold the house and gave only 10 days to move out.
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❌ 2. Trusting Verbal Promises
✔ Why it’s a mistake: In Mexico, verbal agreements have no legal validity in rental disputes.
✔ Cabo Example: A landlord verbally agreed to allow a cat, but the HOA fined the tenant for breaking pet rules — and the fine was deducted from the deposit because “it wasn’t in the contract.”
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❌ 3. Not Confirming if Pets Are Allowed
✔ Why it’s a mistake: Many gated communities have strict pet rules (size, breed, or number of pets). Violations can result in fines or even eviction.
✔ Tenant Tip: Always get written approval in the lease, including details of your pet (breed, size, age).
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❌ 4. Skipping the Move-In Inspection
✔ Why it’s a mistake: Without documented proof, landlords can blame you for pre-existing damage.
✔ Tenant Tip: Always do a photo/video inspection on day one and send it via WhatsApp for timestamped proof.
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❌ 5. Ignoring the Early Termination Clause
✔ Why it’s a mistake: Most leases require losing your deposit or paying 1–2 months’ rent if you leave early.
✔ Tenant Tip: If you might need flexibility, negotiate a clear termination clause before signing.
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❌ 6. Not Asking About HOA Rules (Extra Common in Cabo)
✔ Why it’s a mistake: Tenants are responsible for HOA fines, even if they didn’t know the rules.
✔ Tenant Tip: Always request the HOA rulebook when renting in gated communities.
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❌ 7. Assuming Utilities Are Included
✔ Why it’s a mistake: Many long-term rentals exclude utilities, and unpaid bills may be deducted from your deposit.
✔ Tenant Tip: Confirm in writing which services are included and whose name the utility accounts are under.
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Don’t rush. Review the lease, document everything, and clarify all rules before signing.
✅ These small steps can save you thousands of pesos and weeks of stress at move-out.
✅ 10. FAQs About Lease Agreements in Cabo (2025 Edition)
Tenants in Cabo — especially new expats and first-time renters — often have the same questions. Here are the most common and important ones, with answers tailored to Mexican law and Cabo-specific practices:
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1. Are leases always 12 months?
No, but 12 months is standard for long-term rentals.
✔ Some landlords accept 6-month leases, especially in gated communities with seasonal vacancies.
✔ Expats or digital nomads may find furnished 3–6 month options, but at higher monthly rates.
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2. Can I pay in pesos if the lease is in USD?
Only if the lease explicitly states it. Many owners — especially foreign ones — prefer USD.
💡 Tenant Tip: If you’re paying in pesos, request that the lease include the exact exchange rate to avoid future disputes.
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3. What happens if the landlord sells the property during my lease?
Mexican law requires the new owner to respect your lease until it ends.
✔ Always keep a signed copy of the lease as proof.
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4. Can I break the lease early?
Yes, but you’ll likely lose your deposit or pay a penalty (1–2 months’ rent).
💡 Tenant Tip: Negotiate a flexible early termination clause before signing if your plans might change.
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5. Are pets allowed in most rentals?
Not always. Many gated communities limit number, breed, or size of pets.
✔ Always get written approval in the lease, including pet details.
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6. Can the landlord enter the property anytime?
No. Landlords must give reasonable notice (24–48 hours) except for emergencies (flooding, fire, etc.).
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7. Who pays for repairs?
✔ Landlords: Structural and major repairs (roof leaks, plumbing, electrical).
✔ Tenants: Minor repairs and routine maintenance (light bulbs, clogged drains).
💡 Tenant Tip: Always notify the landlord in writing before paying for repairs yourself.
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8. Can I sublease my apartment or rent it on Airbnb?
Usually no. Subleasing without permission is grounds for eviction, especially in HOA-regulated communities.
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9. Do I need residency to rent in Cabo?
No. Most landlords accept a passport + proof of income.
✔ Long-term leases (12+ months) may require temporary or permanent residency.
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10. Can rent increase during my lease?
No, if you signed a fixed-term lease. Increases apply only after renewal.
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11. Can I ask for a factura (official tax invoice) for rent payments?
Yes, but only if the landlord is registered with SAT (Mexico’s tax authority). Some landlords do not issue facturas for tax reasons.
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12. What happens if I stop paying rent?
The landlord can start legal eviction proceedings. In Cabo, this process takes months, but it damages your rental history and you will forfeit your deposit.
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13. What if the property is damaged in a hurricane?
✔ Landlords are responsible for structural repairs caused by natural disasters.
✔ Tenants must protect the property as much as possible (closing windows, securing furniture) and report damages immediately in writing.
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14. Can I request improvements before moving in?
Yes, you can negotiate fresh paint, minor repairs, or appliance replacements before signing. Get it in writing with a completion date.
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15. How much notice do I need to give before moving out?
Standard in Cabo: 30–60 days’ written notice.
✔ Always check your lease; leaving without proper notice almost always results in losing your deposit.
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✔ Key Takeaway
✅ Ask questions before signing — if it’s not in the lease, it doesn’t exist legally.
✅ Get all special conditions in writing, including pets, included services, or early termination flexibility.
✅ Final Thoughts – Rent Smart in Cabo
A lease agreement is more than paperwork — it’s your strongest legal protection as a tenant in Cabo. It determines your rights, your financial security, and your peace of mind for the entire duration of your rental.
Whether you’re:
✔ A Mexican family upgrading to a better community,
✔ A local downsizing to save costs, or
✔ An expat renting in Cabo for the first time,
…take the time to:
✔ Read every clause carefully — never sign without understanding each term.
✔ Negotiate when possible — many landlords are flexible with good, reliable tenants.
✔ Document everything properly — photos, WhatsApp messages, and receipts are your best protection.
A smart tenant is a protected tenant. Most deposit disputes and conflicts happen because people rush through this process.
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👉 Want to Rent Safely?
Download our FREE professional lease agreement template (bilingual – Spanish & English) — designed specifically for Cabo rentals and updated for 2025. It includes all essential clauses to help tenants rent confidently and legally.
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👉 For Landlords
Want to understand how property owners protect themselves? Read our companion guide: Understanding Lease Agreements in Cabo – The Complete Landlord Guide. Knowing the landlord’s perspective will also help you negotiate better as a tenant.
💡 Want to learn more about renting and living in Cabo?
Explore all our rental and real estate guides here: rentasencabo.com/blog