Tenants: Read the Agreement Before You Sign

Finding a rental property you really want can be exciting, especially when the market is moving quickly. But once your application has been accepted, it is important not to rush through the tenancy agreement simply because you are eager to secure the property.

The tenancy agreement sets out the practical terms that will govern your rental. Taking time to read and understand it before signing can help you avoid confusion later and give you a much clearer picture of your responsibilities as a tenant.

Check the Rent

Start with the basics.

Make sure the agreement clearly states:

• the monthly rent;
• when the rent is due;
• how it should be paid; and
• whether there are any other payment arrangements you need to be aware of.

It is worth confirming these details before signing so that there is no uncertainty once the tenancy begins.

Understand the Deposit

The agreement should also explain the security deposit.

Check:

• how much is required;
• when it must be paid;
• what arrangements apply to it; and
• what may affect its return at the end of the tenancy.

If anything is unclear, ask for an explanation before committing.

Review the Tenancy Term

Make sure you understand the length of the tenancy.

Look for:

• the start date;
• the end date;
• whether it is a fixed-term agreement;
• any renewal provisions; and
• what happens when the original term comes to an end.

Do not assume that the tenancy will automatically continue on the same terms unless the agreement says so.

Check the Break Clause and Notice Requirements

Some tenancy agreements include a break clause, which may allow the landlord, tenant or both parties to end the tenancy before the original expiry date.

If your agreement contains one, check:

• when the break clause can first be used;
• who is entitled to use it;
• how much notice is required; and
• whether any conditions must be satisfied.

Notice provisions are important, particularly if your circumstances may change during the tenancy.

Understand Repairs and Maintenance Responsibilities

The agreement should help clarify who is responsible for different types of repairs and maintenance.

As a tenant, make sure you understand:

• which issues should be reported to the landlord or managing agent;
• what routine responsibilities fall to you;
• how maintenance should be reported; and
• whether you need permission before arranging any work yourself.

Clear expectations at the beginning can make maintenance issues much easier to handle later.

Look at Permitted Use and Restrictions

Every property and building can have different rules.

The tenancy may contain conditions relating to:

• pets;
• smoking;
• overnight guests;
• alterations or decorating;
• subletting;
• short-term letting;
• business use; or
• communal building rules.

If any of these are important to you, check them carefully before signing rather than assuming they will be allowed.

Check Utilities and Other Costs

Make sure you know what is included in the rent and what you are expected to pay separately.

This may include:

• electricity;
• water;
• internet;
• television services;
• building-related charges; or
• other agreed costs.

Understanding the full monthly commitment can help you plan your budget properly.

Pay Attention to Special Conditions

Some agreements contain clauses that are specific to the property or the landlord’s requirements.

Even if a condition does not seem important today, it may become relevant later.

If you do not understand a clause, ask what it means and how it would apply in practice.

It is much easier to clarify a term before signing than to deal with a disagreement once the tenancy is underway.

Ask Questions Before You Commit

A tenancy agreement should not feel like a mystery.

Before signing, you should understand:

what you are agreeing to, what is expected from you and what you can expect in return.

At Find a Property, we encourage tenants to ask questions and understand the practical terms of their tenancy before they make a commitment.

If anything about the agreement is unclear, speak to your FAP agent before signing so that the relevant point can be explained or, where appropriate, referred for professional advice.

Find a Property
Professional Property Service with Personal Touch.

🌐 www.findaproperty.gi
☎ +350 200 44537
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This article is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tenancy terms vary between properties and agreements. Seek appropriate professional advice where necessary.