Guide for apartment renters: How to avoid threats and effectively manage the lease

Renting an apartment can be a beneficial way to earn extra income, but it also carries some risks. In this guide you will find information on how to prepare for renting, how to avoid potential problems and what to do if difficulties occur.

1. Preparing the apartment for rent

   Before putting your apartment up for rent, make sure that it is in good technical and aesthetic condition. A well-presented apartment will find a tenant faster and may bring a higher rent. Take care of:

   • Repairing any defects (leaky taps, broken locks, damaged walls).
   • Thorough cleaning of the apartment.
   • Equipping the apartment with basic furniture and household appliances.
   • Also check the condition of household appliances
2. Preparation of the lease agreement

   The lease agreement is a basic document protecting both the landlord and the tenant. It should contain:

   • Personal data of both parties
   • Detailed description of the rented apartment
   • The amount of rent and the date and method of its payment
   • Information about the deposit (amount, terms of return)
   • Contract validity period
   • Rules regarding termination of the contract
   • Tenant's obligations regarding taking care of the apartment and complying with building regulations
   • Conditions regarding possible changes in the apartment (e.g. painting walls, installation of additional devices)
   • Conditions of keeping animals in the apartment
3. Tenant check

   To minimize the risk associated with renting, it is worth checking the potential tenant carefully:

   • Ask to see documents confirming your identity
   • Verify the source of income (employment contract, bank statement, certificate from the employer)
   • Check references from previous landlords if available
   • You can also check the tenant's credit history (if the law allows it)



4. How to deal with tenant problems
   Payment problems

   If your tenant is behind on rent, follow these steps:

   • Contact the tenant and find out why they are in arrears.
   • Set a new, realistic deadline for repayment of arrears.
   • If the problem persists, send a formal payment request.
   • If problems persist, you may consider terminating the lease and possibly taking legal action.
   Damage to the apartment

   If the tenant damages the apartment:

   • Prepare a damage report, preferably in the presence of the tenant.
   • Determine whether repairs can be carried out at the tenant's expense.
   • Use the deposit to cover the cost of repairs if necessary.
   Disturbing the peace

   In case of complaints from neighbors about noise or other disturbances:

   • Contact the tenant and discuss the problem.
   • Warn the tenant of the possibility of terminating the agreement in the event of further disruptions.
5. What to do if you need to terminate the lease

   If the situation requires termination of the lease:

   • Follow the termination provisions of the contract.
   • Notify the tenant in writing of your intention to terminate the contract, giving reasons.
   • Set a date for the tenant to move out.
   • Prepare a handover protocol documenting the condition of the apartment at the time of moving out.

Renting an apartment can be hassle-free if you prepare properly. Maintain a good relationship with the tenant, regularly check the condition of the apartment and be ready to respond to any problems. A carefully prepared contract and thorough screening of the tenant are the key to a successful lease.

If you are afraid of problems and do not want to take the risk associated with renting, you can use the help of a professional rental management company - BillBerry Apartments.

We hope this guide will help you rent your apartment effectively and safely. If you have additional questions or need support, please contact us. We are here to help!