Accommodation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Finding accommodation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is key to settling into expat life here. When house hunting, new arrivals are often shocked at how expensive accommodation is, particularly in the capital Kinshasa.

Fortunately, if you're working in the DRC, your employer may cover housing costs, including rent, electricity and other utilities. We advise expats moving to the DRC as part of corporate relocation to ensure that your employment package provides for the high accommodation costs or includes secure housing.

Types of accommodation in the DRC

The standard of housing in the DRC is variable, ranging from very poor to exclusive and exorbitantly priced. A hotel is a good option for expats moving to the DRC on a short-term contract. More and more hotels are springing up in Kinshasa, and Lubumbashi also has a few decent hotels.

Gated complexes

Expats living in the DRC for a longer period could be housed in a secure gated complex. These are essentially gated areas with standalone houses, townhouses and apartments. Residents may also have access to shared amenities, such as a swimming pool and garden.

Gated compounds that offer exclusive, high-end accommodation will be pricey. Fortunately, an expat's employer generally provides and pays for this type of housing.

Safety is a major concern when searching for accommodation in the DRC, more so in some areas than others. Burglaries and other petty crimes are common in Kinshasa, while conflict continues to plague the eastern provinces. Seek secure accommodation, preferably within a gated expat compound with 24/7 guards and access control.

Safety in the DRC

Houses

Standalone houses are also available in the DRC. These properties typically have walls around them, and expats are encouraged to explore safety and security measures.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Although furnishings may still be quite minimal in homes marketed as 'furnished', both furnished and unfurnished accommodation is available in Kinshasa. The furniture quality could also be hit-and-miss, so it's worth checking this when signing a lease agreement.

Short lets

Short-term accommodation in the DRC ranges from serviced apartments to furnished rental homes in major cities like Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and Goma. These options provide expats with a comfortable and flexible living arrangement, often including utilities, housekeeping, and security. 

Many expats prefer short lets while they settle in, allowing time to explore neighbourhoods before committing to long-term housing. Additionally, these accommodations are ideal for business travellers or digital nomads needing a hassle-free stay in a convenient location.

Useful links

• Airbnb
• Vrbo

Finding accommodation in the DRC

As an expat working in the DRC, you'll likely have your employer's support when looking for a place to live. Often, the organisation pays for and provides property – but even if they don't, they will be a good point of reference when starting the house hunt.

Online forums and property listings on portals such as IMCongo and DRC Properties are also helpful. Negotiations are common in the DRC, so prospective tenants may be able to leverage their skills to get a better deal than what is listed online. 

It is also frequently recommended that new arrivals go through a real estate agent. These professionals can help new arrivals find a property in the DRC that suits their budget, lifestyle, and preferences.

Useful links

• IMCongo
• DRC Properties

Renting accommodation in the DRC

Housing could be arranged through an expat's employer. If not, navigating the housing market in the DRC can be overwhelming for a new arrival. Enlisting the services of a real estate agent can help to ensure the rights of the landlord and prospective tenant.

Making an application

The first step to finding accommodation in the DRC is to view several properties and contact the landlord or estate agent once you find one you like. Many landlords require proof of employment, a copy of your passport, and in some cases, a guarantor who is locally based when you're applying for housing in the DRC. 

Since formal rental agreements are not always standard, working with a trusted real estate agent or relocation service is advisable to ensure clarity on lease terms and avoid potential disputes.

Additionally, negotiating rental prices and payment terms upfront is common practice, as many landlords prefer payments in US dollars. If you're not fluent in French, we recommend taking a French-speaking friend or colleague with you during your negotiations. 

Leases

We recommend expats carefully review their tenancy agreements. If they are provided in French, it's worth getting the paperwork translated.

Given the short-term nature of an expat's stay, properties can be rented monthly or yearly. Properties can typically be rented for up to three years. Some new arrivals may prefer to rent a property through Airbnb, as this often avoids extra hassles with paperwork while allowing greater flexibility in terms of duration of stay.

Deposits

Typically, landlords in the DRC ask for a three-month security deposit, which is usually refundable at the end of the lease. 

Terminating the lease

The notice period is frequently 30 days for both fixed-term and month-to-month leases, but it's essential to carefully review your lease agreement, as this may differ from contract to contract. We recommend taking an in-depth inventory that includes dated pictures when you move in and out to ensure you are not charged for normal wear and tear. 

If the property is returned in a suitable condition, you should receive your security deposit in full. If there is damage, the landlord will deduct charges from the security deposit. 

Utilities in the DRC

Utilities are commonly added to basic rental costs in the DRC. That said, utilities may not be included in some apartments and gated complexes. We recommend expats ask about the electricity and water supply, as well as water pressure and heating in the building.

Electricity and gas

Connecting electricity and gas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) can be challenging, so expats should plan accordingly. The national electricity provider, Société Nationale d'Électricité (SNEL), is responsible for electricity supply, but power outages are frequent, making a backup generator or solar power a worthwhile investment. 

Depending on your location, your electricity may be supplied by a private provider, and you may have a prepaid or postpaid meter. Prepaid meters require tenants to buy electricity credits in advance, while expats with postpaid meters will usually receive monthly bills. 

Gas for cooking and heating is typically supplied as LPG bottles, which can be purchased from local vendors or specialised suppliers, as mains gas infrastructure is limited. It’s advisable to check with your landlord or real estate agent about existing utility connections and ensure all bills are settled before moving in to avoid unexpected disruptions.

Water

Despite the country's abundant access to freshwater resources, the DRC has a severe lack of access to safe drinking water. Most expats and some locals often drink bottled water, as the tap water in the country is unsafe to drink. Given frequent water shortages, many households and businesses also invest in water storage tanks or boreholes to ensure a steady supply.

REGIDESO, the state-owned company, supplies water in the country. However, water services can be unreliable, especially in cities like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi. To connect to the water grid, expats may need to visit a local REGIDESO office with identification, proof of residence, and their rental agreement. They may also need to pay connection fees, which can vary.

Bins and recycling

Waste management and recycling in the DRC remain largely informal, with limited government-managed waste disposal services, particularly outside major cities like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi. The country's capital, Kinshasa, only has one managed landfill. In urban areas, where most expats will live, private companies and local initiatives provide waste collection services, but coverage can be inconsistent, and residents often rely on informal waste disposal methods. 

Recycling in the country is still in its infancy, with small-scale efforts led by NGOs and community organisations focusing on plastic and electronic waste. We recommend seeking out local recycling initiatives or private collection services to minimise waste and ensure responsible disposal. 

Useful links

• Société Nationale d'Électricité (SNEL)
• REGIDESO
• Plastycor