• 2 months deposit plus 1 month’s rent in advance
• 3 months notice to end the rental period
• Services not included in the rent
• unfurnished can mean naked without even curtain rods
• It is important to look at which service is included in the charges.
• There is usually a fee for registering the contract.

It is advisable to draw up an inventory of fixtures and fittings before signing the contract and make sure you have checked everything.

Accommodation to avoid :

• There are a number of estate agencies accredited by the Ivorian government. It is preferable to use these agencies rather than the independent ones called ‘démarcheurs’.
• Before making a deposit, make sure you have copies of the property deed and the owner’s identity card.
• If possible, avoid cash transactions, and use cheques to pay the deposit for the rent. Anyone who does not accept payment by cheque is likely to be engaged in fraudulent activity.