Renting in Uruguay
Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos (Ley 19.889, arts. 406 y ss.)
Overview: renting in Uruguay
Uruguay has a well-structured legal rental framework that protects both tenants and landlords. Montevideo concentrates the vast majority of rental demand. The law regulates minimum terms, price adjustments and the guarantees required for renting.
Key law: Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos (Ley 19.889, arts. 406 y ss.)
Laws in Uruguay 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
In Uruguay the "guarantee" system is used, which can be a deposit, a bank guarantee or a surety insurance. The 2020 Urgent Consideration Law (LUC) expanded guarantee options to facilitate rental access.
Rent increases
Rent adjustments are governed by official indexes. Historically the Adjustable Unit (UR) or the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has been used. Increases are applied annually according to what is agreed in the contract.
Eviction process
Eviction is processed judicially. For expired contracts, the landlord must formally notify the tenant and, if they do not vacate, file an eviction lawsuit. The process can take several months depending on the grounds and court workload.
Local tip
In Uruguay the National Comptroller’s Office has a rental contract registry. Registering your contract gives you greater legal certainty and facilitates any future claims.
Common issue in Uruguay
Difficulty obtaining rental guarantees, especially for young people and those without property. Ask about the Ministry of Housing guarantees or the Rental Guarantee Fund, which facilitate access.
Your fundamental rights in Uruguay
- 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 Uruguay the National Comptroller’s Office has a rental contract registry. Registering your contract gives you greater legal certainty and facilitates any future claims.
- 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 Uruguay?
In Uruguay, a written contract is always the best protection. Uruguay has a well-structured legal rental framework that protects both tenants and landlords. Montevideo concentrates the vast majority of rental demand.
How much deposit can the landlord charge in Uruguay?
In Uruguay the "guarantee" system is used, which can be a deposit, a bank guarantee or a surety insurance. The 2020 Urgent Consideration Law (LUC) expanded guarantee options to facilitate rental access.
Is there rent control in Uruguay?
Rent adjustments are governed by official indexes. Historically the Adjustable Unit (UR) or the Consumer Price Index (CPI) has been used. Increases are applied annually according to what is agreed in the contract.
What do I do if they try to evict me in Uruguay?
Eviction is processed judicially. For expired contracts, the landlord must formally notify the tenant and, if they do not vacate, file an eviction lawsuit. The process can take several months depending on the grounds and court workload.
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.