Accommodation in Peru

Accommodation in Peru is generally quite affordable, and there are a variety of options depending on your lifestyle and budget. The range and quality of accommodation vary considerably depending on where you choose to settle. 

Housing in cities, particularly Lima, is far pricier than in smaller towns. While apartments are the most common type of accommodation for city-dwelling expats, freestanding houses are often more popular in rural areas.

Types of accommodation in Peru

Most expats in Peru live in one of the larger cities and choose accommodation in the form of apartments. Houses are usually rare, but if you're looking for more space and a garden, you may be able to find a bigger property if you're prepared to pay more.

In general, you should expect to pay more for accommodation that is closer to the city centre and near public transport routes. Those cities and areas popular among expats also tend to be the most expensive. Residential complexes on the outskirts of cities can be perfect for expats, with a variety of apartments and houses with relatively up-to-date amenities.

Safety and security are important considerations when choosing accommodation in Peru. Crime is a concern in Peruvian cities, and house break-ins occur frequently. You should opt for secure accommodation, preferably with 24/7 security and an alarm system. Apartments on the upper floors are also more secure.

Furnished vs unfurnished

Apartments can be furnished, semi-furnished or unfurnished, with the latter being the most common. Furnished apartments may include basic furniture and appliances, while unfurnished accommodation will likely not have any appliances at all.

Short lets

As Peru's tourism industry continues to grow, the short lets market in the country is also developing. Platforms like Airbnb and Sublet are great for renting short-term accommodation at largely affordable rates. Short lets allow new arrivals to Peru to get to know different areas and suburbs before committing to a long-term lease.

An added advantage of short lets is that they are typically fully furnished, and the rental cost will include utilities like water, electricity, and WiFi at a lower price than traditional hotels. 

Finding accommodation in Peru

Online property portals are extremely helpful when it comes to looking for accommodation. Most local newspapers and their electronic counterparts also have listings of available accommodation to rent.

Many estate agents are operating in Peru, and they are a good source of information and assistance when it comes to finding accommodation. Local agents can also guide expats through the entire rental procedure, which may be different from what they are used to. Many landlords do not speak English, so you should bring a trusted friend along, or enlist the help of an estate agent when viewing accommodation.

Useful links

• Fazwaz
• Expats in Peru

Renting accommodation in Peru

Many expats find the renting process in Peru unfamiliar. The language barrier can also be a big hurdle to overcome, so you should consider using an estate agent who can speak both English and Spanish.

Making an application

The first step to renting accommodation in Peru is to search for property vacancies and to view apartments in person to ensure the pictures of the property align with its actual condition. To apply for a rental property in the country, you must submit proof of legal residence, proof of income, and a copy of your Carné (Peruvian ID card for foreigners). 

Leases

Two types of leases exist in Peru: fixed-term and indefinite-term leases. Fixed-term leases require the tenant and landlord to adhere to the contract for a pre-specified time. These leases can be signed for up to 10 years, so you should read the terms of your contract carefully before making a deal.

Indefinite-term leases offer a bit more leeway. These contracts can be suspended at any time, as long as the agreed-upon notice is given. The notice period is usually one month, but it can be longer or shorter, depending on what was arranged with the owner.

Deposits

A security deposit of up to three months’ rent is often required to secure a property. The deposit ensures that the property is not damaged while the tenant lives there. If no damage is done to the property during the rental period, expats can get their deposit back. In case the property is damaged in any way, the amount for the repairs will be taken from the deposit and the rest can be returned.

Utilities in Peru

When renting a property in Peru, you should ensure you sign a rental contract that clearly lists the responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant, including an inventory and which utilities are included. Water, electricity and other utilities are not always included in the rental price and may be an additional expense for the tenant.

Electricity and gas

Electricity is largely used in urban areas, while some rural areas are not connected to the grid. Households that are not connected to the grid will generally use agricultural heating sources such as firewood for cooking and generators as a light source. 

The electricity market in Peru is deregulated and is provided by government and private companies. Enel Generación Perú (Edegel) is the largest power generation company in Peru. To connect electricity in Peru, you will need to provide proof of residence and identification, as well as a deposit. 

Piped natural gas supply is only available in certain areas of Peru. If you're moving to Lima, Callao, Ica, and Piuara, these areas are served by different companies, including Calidda and Quavii. Similarly to electricity, you must submit an application form, proof of residence, and identity documents to request a gas connection. 

Water

Local municipalities supply the drinking water in Peru. Access to safe drinking water in Peru is limited, with approximately 50 percent of the population having access to managed drinking water. The drinking water in Peru is largely considered unsafe to drink, so most residents buy bottled water. 

In Lima, SEDAPAL manages water and wastewater treatment in the city. You can visit the department's website to request a connection and make bill payments. 

Bins and recycling

Waste is collected weekly in Peru's urban areas. Although municipalities are responsible for waste management in the country's cities, most of them have limited resources, which can lead to inconsistent collections and illegal dumping. Recycling efforts in the country are expanding but remain limited. Much of the recycling in the country is limited to the informal waste pickers who collect and separate waste for an income. 

Internet

Keeping in touch with your loved ones back home is fairly easy in Peru. Several public places in Lima offer WiFi. Some top internet service providers in Peru include Movistar, Claro, and Entel. With satellite and cable TV available, you will have access to more than 100 international TV channels in Peru.

Useful links

• Edegel
• SEDAPAL
• Cálidda
• Quavii
• Movistar
• Claro
• Entel