WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE SIGNING A RENTAL AGREEMENT IN RUSSIA (2025)

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WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE SIGNING A RENTAL AGREEMENT IN RUSSIA (2025)

Keywords: rent apartment in Russia, rental agreement in Moscow, tenant rights Russia, property rental, security deposit

In Russia, the rental agreement (dogovor arendy) protects both tenant and landlord.

However, unclear or verbal agreements often cause disputes.

Here are the key points every tenant and landlord should check before signing.

1. Verify the Landlord and Property Documents

Ask for an EGRN extract (Unified State Register of Real Estate) to confirm ownership.

If a representative signs, verify the notarized power of attorney.

Foreign tenants must provide a notarized Russian translation of their passport.

2. Always Sign a Written Agreement

Contracts longer than one year must be in written form.

They should include personal details, address, rent amount, payment method, term, start date, and signatures.

Verbal long-term agreements may not be enforceable in court.

3. Duration and Registration

Most leases are for 11 months, avoiding mandatory registration.

Leases 12 months or longer must be registered with Rosreestr (State Property Register).

Either party must notify the other 30 days in advance if not renewing.

4. Security Deposit

Usually equal to 1–2 months of rent.

Specify when it will be refunded and under what conditions it may be withheld.

Landlords may deduct for unpaid bills or property damage.

5. Rent Payment and Utilities

Rent is paid in Russian rubles; keep bank receipts as proof.

The contract must specify which utilities (electricity, water, gas, heating, maintenance) are included.

Landlords must declare rental income for taxation.

6. Living Conditions and Registration

Tenants must use the property for residential purposes only.

Foreign tenants must register their stay at the Migration Office (GUVM МВД).

Either the landlord or tenant can submit the notification.

7. Maintenance Responsibilities

Minor repairs (light bulbs, taps) – tenant's duty.

Major repairs (plumbing, wiring, windows) – landlord's duty.

These responsibilities should be written in the contract.

8. Termination and Early Exit

Tenants must give 30 days' written notice before leaving.

Landlords can terminate only if:

  • Rent is unpaid for over two months,
  • The property is damaged,
  • Contract terms are violated.

9. Lease Registration

Leases over one year must be registered at Rosreestr.

Required: passports, EGRN extract, signed contract, and state duty receipt.

Registration provides full legal protection to the tenant.

10. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Renting without a contract,
  • Cash-only deposits without receipts,
  • Undefined utility costs,
  • No clause on early termination,
  • Subleasing without written consent.

🏠 In Summary:

To rent safely in Russia:

  • Always use a written contract,
  • Verify ownership and identity,
  • Clarify payments, terms, and repairs,
  • Register your stay if you are a foreign tenant.

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