How to Find Reliable Tenants in Nepal: A Landlord’s Guide

Renting out your house or flat in Nepal can be a great way to earn passive income. But finding the right tenant is just as important as building a house. A reliable tenant pays rent on time, takes care of your property, and avoids legal or social issues. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find trustworthy tenants in Nepal, with step-by-step tips, local practices, and useful checks every landlord should know.

Why Choosing the Right Tenant Matters

Renting might seem easy at first, but one bad tenant can cause:

• Late or unpaid rent
• Property damage
• Unwanted guests or overcrowding
• Neighborhood complaints
• Legal disputes during eviction

That’s why smart landlords screen tenants properly before handing over the keys.

Where to Find Tenants in Nepal

In Nepal, most landlords still rely on word of mouth, but times are changing. You can now use both offline and online methods to reach tenants.

Offline Options:

• Banners or boards outside the house (“Flat for Rent”)
• Asking friends, relatives, or neighbors
• Local real estate agents
• Community notice boards

Online Platforms:

• HamroBazar.com – Most popular for house/flat rentals
• GharBazar, Housing Nepal
• Facebook Groups – e.g., “Flat for Rent Kathmandu”, “Rental Rooms Nepal”
• Messenger & WhatsApp sharing

Tip: Include clear photos, price, number of rooms, location (with landmarks), and facilities (like WiFi, parking, water supply).

Qualities of a Reliable Tenant

Look for these signs of a good tenant:

• Pays rent on time every month
• Stays for long-term (6 months or more)
• Keeps the property clean and undamaged
• Respectful behavior with neighbors
• No illegal or disturbing activities

It’s okay to ask tenants:

“Where did you stay before? How long?”
“Where do you work or study?”
“Will any other person join you later?”

How to Screen Tenants in Nepal (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how you can filter out unreliable renters and choose the right one:

1. Interview Them Briefly

Ask some basic questions politely:

• What’s your job/business?
• How many people will stay?
• Are you married or single?
• How long do you plan to stay?

2. Ask for Identification

Always keep a copy of their Citizenship, Driving License, or Passport. For foreign tenants, ask for a visa/residence permit.

Tip: Make sure the ID matches the name on the rental agreement.

3. Create a Simple Rent Agreement

Even if it’s just a single room or flat, always prepare a written agreement including:

• Rent amount and payment date
• Duration of stay (3, 6, or 12 months)
• Notice period for leaving (usually 1 month)
• House rules (no sub-letting, no loud noise after 10 PM, etc.)

You can find free templates online or get help from a local legal writer (known as “Likhaiwala”).

Important Things to Include in the Rent Agreement

Here are some points every rental agreement in Nepal should include:

Tip: Keep 2 signed copies – one for you and one for the tenant.

Things to Check Before Finalizing

Before handing over the keys, double-check the following:

• 📌 Full name and contact number
• 📌 Emergency contact person
• 📌 Workplace/college name (if applicable)
• 📌 Number of people staying
• 📌 Purpose of stay (residential or business)

You can also visit their current address (if in the same city) or call their previous landlord for feedback.

Special Considerations: Families vs. Singles

In Nepal, landlords often prefer families over groups of single men/women. Here’s a quick comparison:

It depends on your location and comfort level. In city centers like Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Lalitpur, single renters are more common due to colleges and offices.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

Be cautious if the tenant:

• Avoids showing ID
• Insists on paying in cash only
• Doesn’t want a rent agreement
• Keeps delaying move-in date
• Hides the total number of people staying
• Has a bad attitude or shows arrogance early on

Trust your gut. If something feels off, you can politely decline.

House Rules You Can Set

Every landlord has the right to set reasonable rules, such as:

• No smoking or drinking inside
• No loud parties or noise after a certain time
• No illegal activities
• Guests allowed for limited time only
• Keep surroundings clean
• Pets allowed or not (mention clearly)

Tip: Include these in your rental agreement or write them on a paper and hang in the flat.

Communication Is Key

Stay friendly but professional. Let your tenant know they can call you for:

• Repairs or maintenance
• Utility bill issues
• Any safety concerns

Avoid being too strict, but also don’t ignore problems. If rules are broken multiple times, send a written notice.

What to Do If Things Go Wrong?

If the tenant:

• Stops paying rent
• Refuses to leave after notice
• Damages your property

You can:

1. First try to settle by talking
2. Then send a written legal notice
3. As a last resort, go to the ward office or police (with your rent agreement)

Nepali law supports landlords, but proper documentation is important.

What Makes Tenants Stay Longer?

Here are some ways to keep good tenants happy so they stay longer:

• Keep water supply regular
• Fix repairs on time (toilet, bulb, plumbing)
• Be polite and cooperative
• Don’t raise rent too often or suddenly
• Respect their privacy (don’t enter without permission)

A happy tenant = steady rent and less stress.

Sample Rent Price Comparison (Kathmandu Area)

This helps you set a fair rate and attract better tenants.

FAQs: Finding Tenants in Nepal

Q1: Should I use agents to find tenants?
 Yes, if you’re busy or live outside the city. But confirm their fees and reputation first.

Q2: Can I rent without a written agreement?
 You can, but it’s risky. Written agreements protect both parties.

Q3: What if my tenant refuses to leave?
 You’ll need to involve local authorities. Keep all documents safe.

Q4: How much deposit should I take?
 Usually 1 month’s rent. Some take 2 months if furniture is included.

Q5: Is it legal to ask for ID and job details?
 Yes. You have the right to know who is living on your property.

Final Tips: Being a Smart Landlord

• Be clear, polite, and professional
• Document everything
• Don’t ignore your instincts
• Maintain your property well
• Treat your tenant with respect

By following these steps, you can avoid headaches and build a long-term income source with peace of mind.

Call to Action:

Looking to rent out your home or flat in Kathmandu, Lalitpur, or Bhaktapur?

• Contact us to list your property or get a free rent agreement template.

Join our Rental WhatsApp Group to post or find verified tenants near you.