Landlords and Tenants in Cameroon: Rights and Best Practices

A rental arrangement goes smoothly when everything is put in writing from the start. This guide outlines best practices for landlords and tenants in Cameroon.

What the law says

There is no specific Cameroonian law dedicated solely to residential leases. In civil law regions, rentals are governed by the general rules on the hiring of property found in the Civil Code (Articles 1713 et seq.); the Northwest and Southwest regions follow common law. In the event of a dispute, consult a professional.

Before moving in

• A written contract, signed by both parties, specifying the rent, lease duration, advance payments, security deposit, utility charges, and responsibility for repairs.
• A move-in inspection report (état des lieux), dated, signed, and accompanied by photographs.
• A receipt for every payment made.

During the tenancy

• The tenant must pay rent on time and maintain the property.
• The landlord must ensure the tenant’s peaceful enjoyment of the property and is responsible for major repairs, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
• Keep a written record of all repair requests and the responses received.

Moving out

• Provide written notice in accordance with the terms of the contract.
• Conduct a move-out inspection, comparing the condition of the property to its state at the time of move-in.
• The security deposit should be returned, minus any deductions for documented and justified damages.

Frequently asked questions

Can the landlord keep the security deposit?

Only to cover outstanding payments or damages identified during the move-out inspection.

This is why a move-in inspection and a written contract are essential.

What notice period is required?

The one specified in the contract. If there is no such clause, reach an agreement in writing and provide notice as early as possible.

Who pays for repairs?

In general, routine maintenance is the tenant's responsibility, while major repairs are the landlord's. Specify this division of responsibilities in the contract to avoid conflicts.