The First 30 Days After Moving to Cabo: A Renter Setup Checklist

Week 1: Secure Your New Home

The first 72 hours in your new Cabo rental are critical. Before unpacking, document everything. Walk through the property with your landlord or agent and create a detailed condition report. Photograph any existing damage, no matter how minor. Test every key and remote control immediately. Confirm you have the correct number of copies. Photograph the initial meter readings for electricity (CFE) and water. Get this documentation signed by your landlord and keep a copy for your records. Crucially, confirm the exact names on the utility accounts and the next payment due dates. This prevents unexpected service interruptions and ensures you're not liable for previous tenant charges. Use your RentasCabo Renter Passport to store these initial reports and photos digitally.

Internet: The Digital Lifeline

Reliable internet is non-negotiable for most long-term renters, especially remote workers. In Los Cabos, Telmex is the primary provider, often offering fiber optic. Availability varies significantly by neighborhood. Check Telmex's website for serviceability in your specific area. Schedule your installation as early as possible – appointments can take weeks. If fiber isn't available or the wait is too long, consider Starlink. While more expensive upfront, it offers consistent speeds. For a backup, a robust mobile data plan from Telcel or AT&T with a hotspot capability is essential. Test mobile signal strength before committing to a plan. Delays in internet setup can cost you workdays.

Utilities: Understanding the System

Electricity is provided by CFE (Comisión Federal de Electricidad). Download the CFE app to monitor usage and make payments. Understand that tariffs can increase significantly during peak cooling months (summer). Water is typically billed separately. Confirm your water delivery schedule if you rely on a cistern (tinaco) or well. Many homes have propane tanks (gas LP) for cooking and hot water. Identify your gas provider and establish a refill schedule. Trash pickup frequency varies; confirm this with your landlord or HOA. Review your HOA or building rules carefully – these often dictate noise levels, pet policies, and common area usage.

Home Systems Check

Before settling in, perform a basic systems check. Inspect and clean or replace AC filters; dirty filters reduce efficiency and air quality. Locate and test the water pump, especially if you have a cistern. Check the tinaco (rooftop water tank) and cistern levels and understand how they refill. Identify your main electrical breaker panel and know where the shutoff is. Locate all water shutoff valves for sinks, toilets, and the main line. If your home uses gas appliances, ensure functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are present. If not, purchase and install them immediately. These are basic safety measures often overlooked.

Local Logistics: Settling In

Get a Mexican SIM card or eSIM for your phone. Telcel generally has the best coverage. Set up WhatsApp, the primary communication tool in Mexico, and save essential contacts: landlord, property manager, emergency services, and your RentasCabo contact. Identify your nearest grocery stores (large chains like Walmart, Sorachi, La Comer, or local markets) and pharmacies (Farmacias Guadalajara, Farmacias del Ahorro). Know the location of the nearest reputable hospital and urgent care facilities. If you have pets, locate a veterinarian and pet supply store.

Transportation: Getting Around

Understand Uber availability. While present in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, service can be spotty in more remote areas. Parking can be challenging and expensive in popular tourist zones. Renting a car offers flexibility, but consider the costs and hassle of Mexican registration if you plan to stay long-term. Many expats opt for a US/Canadian-plated vehicle if they maintain residency in their home country, but be aware of border crossing limitations. Familiarize yourself with the main airport routes (SJD) and shuttle services.

Money and Administration

Have sufficient cash on hand for initial expenses. While credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, smaller businesses and service providers often prefer cash. If you are establishing residency, open a Mexican bank account. This simplifies rent payments and utility bills. Services like Wise or Revolut can be useful for international transfers, but a local account is best for day-to-day transactions. Always get a receipt for rent payments and keep digital copies in your RentasCabo Renter Passport.

Safety and Storm Prep

Los Cabos is in a hurricane zone. During hurricane season (June-November), have basic supplies: bottled water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, flashlights, and batteries. Ensure your power bank is charged. Know your landlord's emergency contact information and have a plan for communication if power or cell service is lost. Secure outdoor furniture and any items that could become projectiles in high winds. Understand evacuation routes if necessary.

Organize with RentasCabo

Your RentasCabo Renter Passport is designed to streamline this entire process. Use it to store your condition report, utility bills, lease agreement, and landlord contact information. The application and checklist flow within your RentasCabo dashboard helps you track tasks and deadlines. Keeping all your essential documents and move-in details organized in one secure place saves time and reduces stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new life in Los Cabos. Explore available long-term rentals at rentascabo.mx/listings.