Your rights as a tenant in Cameroon: the basics

This is a general introduction, not legal advice, and it is written to help you know when a situation is worth taking to a lawyer. Rental relationships in Cameroon are governed by the civil law and by whatever you and your landlord agreed.

Get the agreement in writing

A written tenancy agreement is your single strongest protection. It should state the parties, the property, the rent, the advance paid, what is included, the duration, the notice period, and who is responsible for which repairs. Both sides should hold a signed copy.

A verbal agreement is not worthless, but proving its terms later is extremely difficult.

Receipts matter enormously

Ask for a written receipt for every payment, including the advance and the caution. Mobile money creates its own record, which is one good reason to pay that way where you can. Without receipts, a dispute about whether you paid becomes your word against theirs.

On deposits and caution

Caution money is generally intended to cover damage beyond ordinary wear. It is meant to be returned at the end of a tenancy, less any legitimate deductions. Agree in writing what it covers and what condition the property is expected to be returned in — and photograph everything on the day you move in.

Notice and eviction

A landlord cannot simply throw you out. There are procedures, and a tenant with a written agreement and payment records is in a considerably stronger position. If you receive an eviction demand you believe is unjust, get advice quickly rather than waiting.

Repairs

Broadly, structural and major systems are the landlord's responsibility while small day-to-day maintenance falls to the tenant, but the agreement governs. Put every repair request in writing, keep copies, and photograph the problem.

Where Nkwata's role ends

We are a noticeboard, not an agent and not a party to your tenancy. Once you deal directly with a landlord, and certainly once you move in, that agreement is between the two of you.