Are utilities included in Costa Rica long-term rentals?

In Costa Rica's Southern Zone, particularly Uvita, Ojochal, and Dominical, many furnished long-term rentals include most routine utilities and property maintenance expenses in the monthly rental rate.

This simplifies the rental arrangement for both tenants and owners, especially because utility billing cycles do not always align with rental dates.

Electricity is typically the main expense paid separately by the tenant.

What's typically included?

Water

Water is commonly included in the monthly rent. Water expenses are not always directly related to tenant consumption, as underground plumbing leaks, pipe connections, irrigation systems, and pool-related issues can cause unexpected increases.

Including water in the rent simplifies billing and keeps responsibility for property infrastructure and maintenance with the owner.

Internet

Standard internet service is usually included as a regular property operating expense.

If a tenant requires upgraded speeds, a secondary connection, or specialized equipment for remote work, those additional costs are typically their responsibility, subject to the owner's approval.

Pool Maintenance

For homes with private pools, routine pool maintenance is generally included.

Typical monthly service costs are approximately $100–$160, depending on pool size, location, and maintenance requirements.

This ensures regular cleaning, chemical balancing, and equipment monitoring regardless of occupancy.

Landscaping and Garden Maintenance

Routine landscaping is generally included to ensure the property remains maintained throughout the tenancy.

This may include grass cutting, trimming, garden upkeep, and general exterior maintenance.

Pest Control

Routine preventative pest control is often included as part of the property's maintenance program.

Costa Rica's tropical climate makes regular pest management particularly important. Additional treatments resulting from tenant-related conditions may be handled separately depending on the lease.

HOA or Community Fees

For properties within gated communities or developments, homeowners' association fees are generally included in the rental rate and remain the owner's responsibility.

House Cleaning

Some furnished rentals include one general house cleaning per month.

This service is intended for routine property upkeep, such as:

Cleaning bathrooms, toilets, and showers.

Cleaning floors and general surfaces.

Cleaning windows and other areas requiring periodic attention.

Helping maintain the property's overall condition.

It does not typically include personal laundry, washing dishes, organizing belongings, or other personal housekeeping services.

Tenants can often arrange additional cleaning directly with the cleaner at their own expense.

What's typically not included?

Electricity

Electricity is usually billed separately because usage varies considerably between households.

Air conditioning, dryers, electric water heaters, and other appliances can significantly affect monthly consumption.

Having tenants pay for their own electricity encourages more conscious energy use and conservation.

Optional Services

Additional expenses may include:

Extra housekeeping visits.

Upgraded or secondary internet connections.

Optional personal services.

Other services requested beyond the property's standard inclusions.

Why include most expenses in the rent?

Including routine property expenses offers several advantages:

Simpler billing: Tenants have fewer individual accounts and payments to manage.

Consistent maintenance: Pool, garden, and pest control services continue regularly.

Infrastructure protection: Water leaks and other maintenance issues can be addressed without disputes over normal consumption.

Predictable costs: Owners can incorporate recurring property expenses into the rental price.

Easier transitions: Utility accounts do not need to be repeatedly transferred between tenants.

Are rental terms negotiable?

Yes. Every property and rental arrangement is different.

Some landlords include all utilities, while others charge separately for certain services. Cleaning frequency and other inclusions may also vary.

Before signing a lease, tenants should confirm exactly which utilities, maintenance services, and household expenses are included.

Our recommendation: For furnished long-term rentals in the Southern Zone, a monthly rental rate that includes routine property services, with electricity billed separately, is often the simplest and most practical arrangement for both owners and tenants.