The standard of rental accommodation in Slovakia varies widely. It is not uncommon for foreigners to be asked to pay their rents in Euros, US dollars, pounds Sterling or other hard foreign currency. Rental rates for foreigners are generally higher than rental rates for local citizens.

It is advisable to employ a reputable real estate agent with experience in the foreign rental market. Generally the landlord will pay the agent's commission, but you should clarify this prior to going out and looking at property. The commission is usually equivalent to a month's rent.

The normal deposit is equivalent to one month's rent, and in addition, one to three month's rent may be requested in advance.

It is possible to rent a fully equipped house or apartment with washer/dryer, television, cable connection, refrigerator etc., but obviously the amount of the monthly payment will depend upon location, amenities, overall condition of the property, age of the structure and so on.

It may be difficult to find a short-term lease of 3 to 6 months duration. Most leases are contracted for a minimum period of one year. According to the Civil Code, three months' notice is mandatory to terminate a residential lease agreement. One month's advance notice is generally required to extend a lease.

Utilities costs (gas, water, electricity, telephone) are generally not included in the lease.