Renting in Bolivia
Código Civil (arts. 685 y ss.) y normativa de alquileres
Overview: renting in Bolivia
In Bolivia, leasing is mainly regulated by the Civil Code. La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba are the cities with the highest rental demand. Although there is no special tenancy law as broad as in other countries, the Civil Code establishes the basic rights and obligations of tenants and landlords.
Key law: Código Civil (arts. 685 y ss.) y normativa de alquileres
Laws in Bolivia can change. This is general educational information, not legal advice. Always verify the current rules and seek local legal help if you have a serious problem.
Deposit or guarantee
One or two months of rent as a guarantee is common. There is no strict legal cap, so it is negotiated between the parties. Always demand a deposit receipt and document the property condition upon entry.
Rent increases
There is no general rent control. The amount and increases are freely agreed in the contract. It is recommended to put any agreement on annual increases in writing.
Eviction process
Eviction requires a court process. The landlord must prove the grounds (non-payment, contract expiration, misuse). They cannot evict by force or cut off basic utilities.
Local tip
In Bolivia, free legal clinics at universities and Ombudsman offices offer legal guidance for tenants. Register your contract to have greater legal backing.
Common issue in Bolivia
Rentals without a written contract, very common in Bolivia. Without a signed document, it is hard to claim. Always insist on a written contract, even a simple one, signed by both parties.
Your fundamental rights in Bolivia
- Right to a habitable and safe home
- Protection against forced eviction without legal process
- Right to have your deposit returned (if there are no damages)
- Protection against arbitrary rent increases during the contract
- Right to privacy and advance notice before the landlord enters
What to do if you have a problem
- 1Document everything: keep your lease, payment receipts and take dated photos of the property condition.
- 2Always notify your landlord in writing (text, email or letter) and keep a dated copy.
- 3If the landlord does not respond, seek local legal aid. In Bolivia, free legal clinics at universities and Ombudsman offices offer legal guidance for tenants. Register your contract to have greater legal backing.
- 4Never stop paying rent on your own without legal advice — in many countries this can be grounds for eviction.
- 5If you suffered discrimination, seek help from the local ombudsman or human rights office.
Frequently asked questions
Is a written contract mandatory to rent in Bolivia?
In Bolivia, a written contract is always the best protection. In Bolivia, leasing is mainly regulated by the Civil Code. La Paz, Santa Cruz and Cochabamba are the cities with the highest rental demand.
How much deposit can the landlord charge in Bolivia?
One or two months of rent as a guarantee is common. There is no strict legal cap, so it is negotiated between the parties. Always demand a deposit receipt and document the property condition upon entry.
Is there rent control in Bolivia?
There is no general rent control. The amount and increases are freely agreed in the contract. It is recommended to put any agreement on annual increases in writing.
What do I do if they try to evict me in Bolivia?
Eviction requires a court process. The landlord must prove the grounds (non-payment, contract expiration, misuse). They cannot evict by force or cut off basic utilities.
Golden rule
Put EVERYTHING in writing and keep receipts. Contracts, payments, requests and agreements should always be documented. It is your best protection.
Before you sign
Read the entire contract carefully. Never sign with blank spaces. Keep a copy signed by both parties.