Renting an apartment – what needs to be arranged?
6 tasks in suggested order
1. Before signing, check the landlord, the exact apartment designation, rent, service charge advances, the security deposit, the lease term, termination rules, and service terms.
Before paying the security deposit and taking over the apartment.
With the landlord; seek legal advice if the contract is unclear.
Proof of identity and a written contract with a payment schedule.
The municipal authority does not review the lease agreement for you; keep records of payments and communication.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
2. Pay the security deposit only as stipulated in the contract and keep the proof of payment as well as the terms regarding its refund and offsetting.
Upon signing or by the date specified in the contract.
The landlord or the agreed-upon account.
The lease agreement and proof of payment.
The security deposit, service charge advances, and rent are separate payments.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
3. Upon handover, draw up a protocol noting meter readings, the number of keys, furnishings, and defects, and take photographs.
On the day of the physical handover of the apartment.
With the landlord or property manager.
The contract, a prepared handover protocol, and a device for taking photos.
Without a protocol, it is more difficult to prove the origin of any damage or the utility meter readings.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
4. Clarify which utilities and services remain the landlord's responsibility and which ones you need to transfer to your name or arrange yourself.
Before moving in or during the handover.
The landlord, the building manager, and the specific utility providers.
Supply point numbers, meter readings, the contract, and identification details.
Do not sign a duplicate contract until the current account holder and the date of the change are clear.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
5. If you wish to change your permanent residence or—as a foreigner—register your address, fulfill the specific requirements of the relevant registry.
Upon acquiring the right to use the apartment and within the applicable statutory deadline.
Registry office or the office handling foreign nationals' residency matters.
Lease agreement or other proof of the right of use, plus identity/residency documents.
A lease agreement alone does not automatically change the registered address.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
6. When leaving, terminate the lease in writing in accordance with the contract and the law, hand over the property via a handover protocol, and settle the security deposit and utility charges.
In advance, in accordance with the notice period, and at the time of handover.
Landlord, property manager, and utility providers.
Notice of termination/agreement to terminate, the lease contract, handover protocol, photographs, and final meter readings.
Moving out alone does not necessarily end the obligation to pay rent and utility charges.
Official source: portal.gov.cz
