What to ask before you rent an apartment
The most expensive mistakes in renting are made on day one: a non-refundable deposit, verbal promises, someone else's debts. These questions protect you from them.
Ask by phone
Half of the terms become clear on the call — if the answers don't work for you, it isn't worth going to a viewing.
Are utilities included in the price?
Electricity, gas, water, internet — if they are paid separately, work out the real monthly cost in advance.
How much is the deposit, and when is it returned?
Ask for the return terms specifically — an answer like "we'll see when you move out" is a red flag.
Are you the owner or an intermediary?
Find out on the first call how much the intermediary's commission is and who pays it.
Will there be a contract?
A written contract protects both you and the landlord — stay away from anyone who says "my word is enough".
What is the minimum term, and how can the rent go up?
Discuss it now, so that half a year later you don't face a "the price went up" surprise.
Do you rent to families, to people with children or pets?
Ask this on the call, not after the viewing — don't waste your time.
Which furniture and appliances stay, and which are taken away?
The fridge from the photos can vanish on move-in day — ask for a list of what stays.
Ask at the viewing
On the day you see the apartment, check everything on the spot and write it down — deposit disputes start right here.
Shall we record the meter readings together?
Photograph the electricity, gas and water meter readings on move-in day — so the previous tenant's debt doesn't pass to you.
There are no utility debts, right?
If there is a debt, the service may be cut off while you live there — require it to be paid before you move in.
Do the appliances and plumbing work?
Turn on the boiler, the air conditioner, the fridge, the tap and the toilet on the spot — don't trust "it used to work".
Are you really the owner of this apartment?
Look at the title deed and match it to an ID — there are scammers who "rent out" other people's apartments.
Shall we write down the existing defects?
Scratches, stains, breakages — attach all of it with photos to the contract, so the deposit isn't withheld for them when you move out.
What are the move-out terms in the contract?
How much notice is needed, when the deposit is returned in full — it all must be on paper.
What can you tell me about the neighbors and the building?
Elevator, entrance, noise, parking — you can't change these, but you can still change the apartment.
Red flags
If any of these apply, stop and think again.
- They ask you to transfer the deposit or the first month's rent without showing the apartment.
- "The owner is abroad, a courier will bring the keys" — a classic scam scenario.
- The price is far below the market, and they say "hurry, there are many interested".
- They avoid showing a document that proves ownership.
- They insist on payment with no contract, in cash only and with no receipt.
Questions ready — now find your apartment
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