Renting or buying property safely in Egypt
Renting is the most common need for Chinese residents in Egypt. This page lists what to check before signing and where the official sources are. It is an overview, not legal advice.
Before you sign
- Make sure you are dealing with the owner, or with someone holding a valid power of attorney (tawkeel), and check their ID.
- Check that the water, electricity and gas meters are in the owner's name and have no unpaid balance.
- Write the address, floor, rooms, furniture list and handover condition into the contract, ideally with photos.
Key lease terms
- Leases signed since 1996 follow the Civil Code, so term, renewal and increases are whatever the contract says. Write them all down.
- Agree in writing how the deposit is returned, who handles repairs and who pays shared building costs.
- You can certify the contract date (ithbat tarikh) at a Real Estate Publicity and notary office, so it can serve as evidence later.
- Keep a receipt or bank transfer record for every payment.
Foreigners buying property
- Ownership by non-Egyptians is governed by Law No. 230 of 1996, with conditions on area and purpose.
- Before buying, have a lawyer check the chain of title and the registration status. Unregistered property carries more risk.
- Off-plan units may only be marketed after a building permit is issued. Ask to see it before you sign.
Official and public sources
- Ministry of Justice (real-estate registry and notary)
- Digital Egypt portal
- Consumer Protection Agency (CPA)
Need an interpreter to come along, or want to post a real sale or rental?