Finding accommodation in Santiago may be the biggest hurdle in the whole renting process. As more people move to the city, demand for good accommodation grows higher. Luckily, the dollar holds formidable acquisition power here, so expats earning it should be able to find a suitable place to rent. Read on to find out more about accommodation in Santiago.
Areas and suburbs in Santiago
Popular areas in Santiago include Ñuñoa, known for its tranquil atmosphere and green spaces; Providencia, characterised by its tree-lined streets and exciting city life; and Las Condes, a relatively affluent area with a significant expat population. For those seeking more budget-friendly options without compromising on quality, La Reina offers a balanced mix of residential comfort and access to amenities.
Another notable area is Santiago Centro, the heart of the city, which offers a rich historical and cultural experience. While it’s bustling and lively, newcomers should be aware of varying safety levels across this district.
For those who prefer a more artistic and bohemian lifestyle, the Barrio Bellavista presents an eclectic mix of cultural experiences, from lively nightlife to art galleries and theatres. This area especially appeals to younger expats and those who enjoy a lively social scene.
Find out more in our comprehensive guide to the Best (and Worst) Areas and Suburbs in Santiago.
Types of accommodation in Santiago
Most of the accommodation in Santiago comes in the form of ‘piezas’ or apartments. It’s also possible to find houses for rent, and some expats prefer those in gated complexes, especially in the more expensive areas of the city.
When considering the location of accommodation, expats should think about proximity to work as well as schools and other amenities.
Both furnished and unfurnished accommodation are available, although fully stocked apartments cost more. Unfurnished apartments will generally come with no furniture or appliances.
Finding accommodation in Santiago
Using personal connections is the most popular way to find accommodation in Santiago. One of the best ways for expats to find suitable accommodation quickly is to talk to fellow expats or locals – anyone from a colleague to a friendly shopkeeper in the desired neighbourhood might be able to lend a hand.
If this doesn’t pan out, there are also several rental agencies and relocation companies that specifically cater to the expat community. These service providers make finding accommodation much more straightforward but far more costly. The good news is that the final fee for the agent is typically split between the tenant and the landlord.
Fluency in, or at least a basic command of, Chilean Spanish will significantly help during the initial property search and negotiations. It might be helpful to bring along a local friend – this way, expats are far more likely to get a better deal.
Expats can find accommodation by using online portals or searching on social media.
Useful links
Renting accommodation in Santiago
Making an application
Once a suitable property is found, expats can express their interest formally by completing an application form provided by the landlord or rental agency. This step initiates the rental agreement process and is typically followed by negotiations over the lease terms and conditions.
Expats should be prepared to provide various documents during the application process, including identification, proof of income or employment, and sometimes references from previous landlords.
It’s also common practice for landlords to request a credit check to ensure the reliability of potential tenants, which might pose a challenge for expats who are new to the country and lack a local financial history. Additional documentation, such as bank statements or an employment contract, may be required to demonstrate financial stability.
Leases
Rental agreements in Santiago are generally for a 12-month period, but shorter terms can be negotiated, although usually at a higher price.
Depending on the landlord, expats may be required to have a Chilean guarantor to secure a rental contract. In most cases, an expat’s employer will act as a guarantor, but this is not always possible. In instances where a guarantor is required, but expats are unable to find one, they may be able to negotiate a larger security deposit instead.
Deposits and fees
Landlords generally require a deposit amount of at least one month’s rent. Additionally, expats should be aware that some landlords may charge a ‘move-in’ fee to cover administrative costs, such as drafting the lease agreement and conducting property maintenance checks before occupancy.
Expats should be sure to get a full and detailed inventory of the apartment and its contents, as they will be liable for any damage beyond normal wear and tear.
Utilities in Santiago
Utility costs are usually not included in the rent in Santiago. Tenants are typically responsible for paying their own utilities, including water, electricity, gas and sometimes community charges if living in a building with shared facilities. Expats should clarify what is included in the rent and what isn’t before signing the lease to avoid unexpected expenses.
Electricity
In Santiago, the electricity sector is served by several key providers, including Enel Chile, the largest electricity holding company in the region. Other notable providers in the city are Schneider Electric, ENGIE, Wood, Fluor and Shell, all contributing to a diverse energy market.
Bills are typically issued monthly and can be paid through various convenient methods, including online banking, automatic bank transfers or in person at the provider’s office or authorised payment locations.
Gas
In Santiago, the provision of gas is primarily through a piped network rather than bottled gas, ensuring a steady and reliable supply to residents and businesses. Metrogas, Chile’s leading natural gas distribution company, plays a pivotal role in this network. They are renowned for their innovative practices, particularly at the La Farfana Wastewater Treatment Plant, where they convert digester gas into renewable natural gas.
Alongside Metrogas, Electrogas is another significant provider in the region. They operate a crucial natural gas transmission system that connects the Quintero LNG Terminal to the Santiago metropolitan area.
The country’s reliance on LNG imports, primarily from Argentina, has facilitated the development of its gas infrastructure. This expansion is not just limited to industrial users; there is an ongoing initiative to connect more residential users in larger cities to the natural gas transmission system, reflecting the growing importance of natural gas as a primary energy source in the region.
Water
Aguas Andinas, the region’s main water provider, primarily manages Santiago’s water supply. Other providers, such as Essal and Essbio, also play a role in the city’s water supply network.
Santiago’s water supply and sanitation sector has significantly transformed since the late 20th century, resulting in Santiago being recognised for its superior water coverage and quality levels compared to other Latin American cities.
Bins and recycling
In Santiago, the approach to waste management and recycling is becoming increasingly structured and eco-conscious. Most residential and commercial buildings have designated bins for general waste and recycling, reflecting a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility. General waste is collected weekly, while recycling is collected fortnightly.
Recycling facilities in Santiago accept various materials. The most commonly recycled items include cardboard, newspapers, glass and plastic water bottles. Residents are encouraged to separate these recyclables from their general waste to facilitate efficient recycling.
However, not all recycling points in Santiago accept every type of material. Residents should consult local recycling maps to locate the nearest recycling point that accepts the specific materials they wish to recycle.
Internet
Santiago is serviced by several top-tier internet service providers (ISPs), including well-known names like Claro, VTR and Movistar.
One of the key offerings in the Chilean internet market is the availability of prepaid internet services. This option is particularly advantageous for expats who may not be ready to commit to a long-term contract. These services are accessible via dongles, which can be purchased and recharged at any ISP counter or shop.
The competitive nature of Chile’s telecommunications industry means that expats can expect fast and reliable internet services.