Guam Rental Checklist and Move-In Costs: What to Pay and Bring Before You Get the Keys
Short answer: Most Guam landlords ask for a completed Application to Rent from every adult occupant, a valid photo ID, and the first month’s rent plus a security deposit, which is commonly one month’s rent. Add prorated rent if you move in mid-month and the cost of setting up utilities.
Rental application checklist for Guam
Requirements vary by landlord and property manager, so confirm the list with the listing agent. These are the items renters on Guam are most often asked for.
Everyone
- Valid government-issued photo ID for every adult applicant.
- Application to Rent completed by every occupant age 18 and older.
- Proof of income or orders. Many landlords ask for pay records or, for military renters, PCS orders.
- Pet information (breed, weight) if you have animals. Pet policies and fees vary by property. See pet-friendly homes in Guam.
- Funds for the first month’s rent and security deposit, due before move-in.
Military renters, add these
- A military clause in the lease that allows penalty-free termination on PCS or relocation orders.
- DD Form 2367 (Individual Overseas Housing Allowance Report), completed and submitted with your lease to your housing office.
- Your OHA rent cap, confirmed on the DoD OHA Rate Lookup before you apply. See the Guam OHA guide for how the cap works.
Typical move-in costs on Guam
Amounts differ by landlord and property. Ask the listing agent for an itemized move-in total before you sign.
Example: what you might pay up front
This is an illustration, not a quote. Say a home rents for $2,000 per month and you sign a lease starting on the first of the month.
| Cost | What to expect |
|---|---|
| First month’s rent | Due before you receive keys. |
| Security deposit | Commonly one month’s rent. Refundable, subject to the lease terms and the condition of the home at move-out. |
| Prorated rent | If you move in mid-month, rent for the partial month is usually prorated. Make sure the lease states how. |
| Utility setup | Electric service through the Guam Power Authority (GPA) and water through the Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA). Ask each provider about deposits and activation time. |
| Internet and cable | Installation and equipment fees vary by provider and building. |
| Pet fees | Deposit depend on the landlord and the animal. |
Amounts differ by landlord and property. Ask the agent for an itemized move-in total
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| First month’s rent | $2,205 |
| Security deposit (one month) | $2,205 |
| Due before keys | $4,410 |
| Utility setup, internet, pet fees | Varies, added on top |
A mid-month move-in changes the first line to a prorated amount. Utilities and other setup costs are added on top of the $4,410
Move-in inspection: protect your deposit
Before you unpack, complete a written move-in inspection with the landlord or agent.
- Walk every room and note existing marks, stains, damaged screens, and appliance condition.
- Take dated photos and videos of everything you note, and keep a copy of the signed report.
- Test A/C units, water pressure, and outlets, and report issues in writing right away.
- Check typhoon shutters or other storm protection, if the home has them.
That report is your best evidence of the home’s condition when you got there, which matters when the deposit is settled at move-out. For more on renting as a military family, see the Guam military rental guide, and for choosing between a condo and a house, how OHA works with each.
Guam rental move-in: frequently asked questions
How much is the security deposit on Guam?
It is commonly equal to one month’s rent, but the amount is set by the lease and the landlord. Ask for it in writing before you apply.
What do I need to apply for a rental on Guam?
A valid photo ID and a completed Application to Rent for each occupant 18 and older are the most common requirements. Many landlords also ask for proof of income or orders.
Will rent be prorated if I move in mid-month?
Most Likely Yes. Confirm the proration method in your lease so the first payment matches what you expect.
Should I set up utilities before I move in?
Yes. Contact the Guam Power Authority and the Guam Waterworks Authority ahead of your move-in date, and ask about deposits and activation timing.
Planning a move to Guam?
I help renters get an itemized move-in total and a complete application package before they sign.
Talk to Jae LeeJae Lee, REALTOR® · Brilliant Realty Guam
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