Renting a home in Metro Manila can be exciting, whether you are moving into your first apartment, upgrading to a bigger condo, or relocating closer to work. But in a competitive market where properties move fast and contracts can be overwhelming, it is easy for renters to overlook important details. For landlords, unclear leases and poor communication can lead to disputes, higher vacancy rates, and broken trust.

This guide covers the five most important things to check before signing a lease in Metro Manila, with practical solutions designed to protect both renters and property owners.

Why Checking Before Signing Matters

For renters, failing to review details can result in unexpected costs, restrictive rules, or even scams. A lease should be more than just a formality. It is a legal contract that outlines your rights and responsibilities for the duration of your stay.

For landlords, a poorly written or unclear lease can scare away tenants or cause misunderstandings that damage long-term rental relationships. Transparency and clear agreements build trust, attract better tenants, and reduce turnover.

Verify Ownership and Legitimacy

For Renters:

One of the most common risks in Metro Manila is dealing with fraudulent landlords or agents. Before signing anything, ask for proof of ownership such as a Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) or Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT). If dealing with a representative, request a notarized Special Power of Attorney (SPA) that confirms their authority to lease the property. Renters should also ask for valid IDs and official receipts for payments. This protects against scams and ensures the landlord has the right to lease the unit.

For Landlords:

Owners should make verification easy by preparing documents upfront. Providing tenants with copies of titles, IDs, and proof of billing builds credibility. It is also wise to register the lease with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and issue official receipts, since professional handling reassures tenants and attracts higher-quality applicants.

Inspect the Property Thoroughly

For Renters:

Photos in listings can look appealing, but they may not reflect the actual condition of the unit. Before signing, conduct a detailed walkthrough of the property. Check for issues such as water leaks, faulty wiring, broken appliances, and pest problems. Test faucets, light switches, and air-conditioning units. If possible, visit at different times of the day to check noise levels and sunlight exposure. Document everything with photos or videos so you have proof of the unit’s condition before moving in.

For Landlords:

Landlords should consider conducting a pre-lease inspection themselves and providing tenants with a written report. A unit that is well-maintained creates a positive first impression and reduces disputes later. Addressing repairs before the tenant moves in shows responsibility and encourages tenants to care for the property.

Review Lease Terms in Detail

For Renters:

Leases in Metro Manila vary, and some contain hidden clauses. Read the agreement line by line and clarify anything that is vague. Pay close attention to the length of the contract, renewal conditions, penalties for early termination, and notice requirements for moving out. Ask if rent includes association dues, utilities, or parking. Check for escalation clauses that allow rent increases after a certain period. Do not be afraid to negotiate terms that feel unreasonable.

For Landlords:

Property owners should use contracts that are written in plain, understandable language. Legal jargon can intimidate tenants and discourage them from signing. Include clear sections on rent amount, payment schedules, deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and renewal terms. Providing transparency prevents disputes and positions you as a fair and trustworthy landlord.

Understand Hidden Costs and Fees

For Renters:

Rent is not the only cost of living in Metro Manila. Association dues in condominiums can add 10 to 20 percent to your monthly budget. Some buildings charge extra for parking, use of amenities, or move-in and move-out fees. Utilities such as water and electricity also vary depending on the provider. Before signing, ask for a breakdown of all recurring expenses and one-time fees. This helps avoid surprises that could stretch your budget too thin.

For Landlords:

Landlords should disclose all additional costs in advance. Being upfront about dues, utilities, and fees prevents conflict and builds trust. It also helps market the property more effectively since renters know exactly what they are paying for. Offering “all-in” rental packages that include association dues or Wi-Fi can make listings more attractive and simplify payment arrangements.

Clarify Building or Village Rules

For Renters:

Every building or subdivision has its own policies, and ignoring them can lead to frustration later. Some condominiums do not allow pets, while others restrict renovations, visitors, or subleasing. Ask about noise curfews, access to amenities, and parking rules. For families, confirm if there are child-friendly amenities or designated play areas. Understanding these rules before signing ensures that the property fits your lifestyle and avoids penalties for violations.

For Landlords:

Owners should communicate rules clearly from the beginning. Provide tenants with a copy of building policies or village guidelines, and include the most important ones in the lease agreement. Setting expectations upfront avoids misunderstandings and helps tenants adjust smoothly to the community.

Bonus: Plan for Long-Term Stability

For Renters:

Before signing, think about whether the community is suitable for your long-term plans. If you expect to stay for several years, consider areas with good schools, accessible transportation, and upcoming infrastructure developments. Long-term planning helps you avoid the stress and expense of relocating too often.

For Landlords:

Landlords can encourage long-term tenancy by offering renewal options and small incentives for families or professionals who stay longer. Stable tenants mean consistent income and lower vacancy rates, which is a win for both sides.

Practical Checklist for Renters

Ask for proof of ownership and verify legitimacy: Before paying anything, request copies of the Condominium Certificate of Title (CCT) or Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT). If you are dealing with an agent, ask for a Special Power of Attorney (SPA). This step ensures you are transacting with the rightful owner and protects you from scams.

Inspect the property and document its condition: Do a thorough walkthrough before signing. Test appliances, plumbing, and lights, and look for damages. Take photos or videos during the inspection so you have proof of the unit’s state when you moved in.

Review lease terms carefully and negotiate if needed: Read the contract word for word and clarify vague sections. Check for rent inclusions, renewal terms, and penalties. If you see something that does not work for you, ask the landlord to adjust or negotiate before signing.

Confirm all additional costs and fees: Beyond rent, ask about association dues, parking charges, and utilities. Knowing the full monthly cost prevents budget shocks later. If possible, request a written breakdown.

Clarify community rules before moving in: Ask about pet policies, renovation restrictions, visitor access, or curfews. Make sure the rules align with your lifestyle so you avoid conflicts or penalties once you settle in.

Practical Checklist for Landlords

Provide ownership documents and issue official receipts: Be transparent with titles, IDs, and proof of ownership. Issuing official receipts through the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) also reassures tenants that the transaction is legitimate.

Conduct pre-lease inspections and make repairs: Addressing repairs before move-in creates goodwill. Provide tenants with a checklist that confirms the unit’s condition, so expectations are clear from the start.

Use clear, transparent contracts: Draft agreements in plain, easy-to-understand language. Avoid heavy legal jargon and include clear details about rent, deposits, and renewal terms to build trust.

Disclose all fees and consider all-in packages: Be upfront about association dues, parking, and other costs. Consider bundling rent with dues or Wi-Fi for a simpler, more attractive offer.

Share building or village rules upfront: Provide tenants with copies of policies, such as pet restrictions or visitor guidelines. Setting expectations early prevents future disputes and keeps the community harmonious.

Final Thoughts

Signing a lease in Metro Manila should never be rushed. For renters, the goal is to secure a safe, convenient, and fairly priced home. For landlords, the goal is to attract reliable tenants and create long-term relationships. By verifying ownership, inspecting properties, reviewing terms, clarifying costs, and understanding rules, both sides can avoid conflict and build trust.

A lease is more than a piece of paper. It is the foundation of a smooth rental experience, and when done right, it benefits everyone involved.