Rent Increase Limits in Cyprus

Setting the initial rent at the start of a lease in Cyprus is completely governed by the free market, regardless of when the property was built. However, once the lease is signed or expires, "Contractual" and "Statutory" (Rent Control) tenancies face entirely different legal frameworks regarding subsequent rent increases.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Cyprus for advice specific to your situation. Information last verified: March 2026.

1. Statutory Tenancy (Rent Control)

If your property falls under the Rent Control Law (completed before 1999, located in a controlled area, and the initial lease has expired while the tenant remains), then any rent increase is strictly regulated by the State.

The Council of Ministers Decree (Rent Cap)

The maximum allowable rent increase limit is decided every two years by the Council of Ministers, reflecting inflation and current market conditions.

• April 2025 – April 2027 Maximum Limit: 6%
• (Note: Historically, the increase was frozen at 0% from 2013 to 2023 due to the financial crisis and COVID-19. In April 2023, it was raised to 6%, a cap that was subsequently renewed).

Rules for Application

• The 2-Year Rule: A landlord can only demand a rent increase if 2 years (24 months) have passed since the date of the last rent revision or since the initial tenancy began.
• If the property is rented significantly below market prices, the landlord may apply to the Court to determine a "Fair Rent." However, the court is generally bound by the cap set by the Decree (unless there are exceptional improvement renovations).

2. Free Market / Contractual Tenancy

For properties built or completed from the year 2000 onward, "Free Market" laws apply. There is no legal cap (maximum ceiling) on rent increases.

How it Works

Notice Periods

The law does not strictly define the notice period for rent increases in contractual tenancies, but customary practice (and good faith) requires a written notice of 30 to 60 days before the end of the contract or renewal period. For Rent Control tenancies (once the 2-year mark is met), a 30-day (1 month) written notice under Section 8 of the Rent Control Law is legally required to validly demand the 6% increase.

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Landager can help!

Never miss the date you're legally entitled to an increase. Landager tracks lease renewals and statutory rent escalation dates for each property and automatically notifies you when it is legal to request a rent adjustment under Rent Control.