A law passed in 1995 also enables a landlord to take a security deposit with a rental contract, to offset against any damages. This is one month's rent for a house and 2 month's rent for a property for any other use. The deposit is called a fianza and should be lodged with an independent, third party such as an agent. It is often common practice for the landlord to hold the deposit himself but be aware that this gives him full control.
Common clauses in a rental contract include:
The term is set - usually 11 months but renewable
The rent is payable usually monthly
You are liable for all the bills on the property such as electric, water and gas
The community charge is normally paid by the owner
You must not use the property for business purposes
You must not upset other local residents or act in an unsociable way
You will be liable for any damages and/or losses when you leave
If you renew the contract, the rent can rise by the rate of inflation
You cannot sublet the property and must live there
