Romania is a beautiful country that offers many opportunities for expats looking to rent property. Whether you are looking for a short-term rental or a long-term lease, there are several factors to consider when renting property in Romania. In this article, we will explore some of the most important aspects of leasing property in Romania, including typical lease terms, differences between furnished and unfurnished rental properties, standard and optional lease clauses, and more.
Typical Lease Terms for Renting Property in Romania
The typical lease term for renting property in Romania is one year, although shorter-term leases may also be available. In some cases, landlords may be willing to negotiate a longer lease term, particularly for tenants who are looking for a more permanent rental solution.
It is common for landlords to require a deposit or security deposit, typically equivalent to one or two month’s rent, which will be returned to the tenant at the end of the lease term if the property is in the same condition as when it was rented.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished Rental Properties in Romania
When renting property in Romania, tenants can choose between furnished and unfurnished rental properties. Furnished properties typically include furniture, appliances, and other basic household items such as dishes, utensils, and bedding. Unfurnished properties, on the other hand, do not include any furniture or household items.
Furnished properties may be more convenient for short-term rentals or for tenants who are moving to Romania from another country and do not want to bring their own furniture. However, they are generally more expensive than unfurnished properties due to the cost of purchasing and maintaining the furniture and household items.
Standard Lease Agreement Clauses in Romania
Lease agreements in Romania typically include standard clauses that outline the rights and obligations of both the landlord and the tenant. Some of the most common clauses in a Romanian lease agreement include:
Description of the property: This clause describes the physical characteristics of the property being rented, such as the location, number of rooms, and amenities.
Term of the lease: This clause specifies the length of the lease term, typically one year.
Rent amount: This clause outlines the amount of rent due each month and when it is due.
Deposit or security deposit: This clause specifies the amount of the deposit or security deposit required and the conditions under which it will be returned.
Maintenance and repairs: This clause outlines the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant for maintaining and repairing the property.
Pets and subleasing: These clauses specify whether pets are allowed and whether the tenant is allowed to sublease the property.
Optional Lease Agreement Clauses in Romania
In addition to the standard lease agreement clauses, there may be additional clauses that can be included in a lease agreement in Romania. Some of the optional clauses that may be included include:
Utilities: This clause specifies which utilities are included in the rent amount and which utilities the tenant is responsible for paying.
Parking: This clause outlines whether the property includes parking and, if so, how many spaces are available.
Renewal: This clause outlines the process for renewing the lease at the end of the term, including any rent increases or changes to the lease agreement.
Early termination: This clause outlines the conditions under which the lease can be terminated early, such as if the tenant needs to move out unexpectedly.
Considerations for Expats When Signing a Lease Contract in Romania
If you are an expat renting property in Romania, there are some additional considerations to keep in mind when signing a lease contract. These include:
- Language barrier: If you do not speak fluent Romanian, it is important to make sure that the lease agreement is available in a language you understand or that you have someone who can translate the agreement for you.
Local laws and regulations: It is important to familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations related to renting property in Romania, particularly if you are not familiar with the country’s legal system.
Payment methods: In Romania, it is common to pay rent in cash or by bank transfer. If you are paying by bank transfer, it is important to ensure that you have the appropriate bank account information and that you understand the process for making payments.
Documentation: When renting property in Romania, you will typically need to provide proof of income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, as well as identification documents such as a passport or ID card.
Repairs and maintenance: It is important to clarify with the landlord who is responsible for repairs and maintenance, particularly for major issues such as plumbing or electrical problems.
Condition Reports for Rental Properties in Romania
Condition reports are not required in Romania before signing a lease agreement, but it is recommended that tenants thoroughly inspect the property and document any existing damages or issues before signing the lease agreement. It is important for tenants to review and, if necessary, dispute any issues in the property before signing the lease agreement.
Qualifications and Licenses for Letting Agents in Romania
Letting agents in Romania are not required to have a professional license, but it is recommended to work with a reputable letting agent who has experience in the Romanian rental market. It is also recommended to choose a letting agent who is a member of a professional organization, such as the National Association of Realtors in Romania.
Association or Organization for Reputable Letting Agencies in Romania
The National Association of Realtors in Romania (ANR) is a professional organization that represents real estate professionals in Romania. ANR provides training and certification programs for its members and works to promote the highest standards of professionalism in the real estate industry in Romania.
If you are looking for a letting agent in Romania, it is recommended to choose one who is a member of ANR or a similar organization. This can help ensure that the letting agent is knowledgeable and experienced in the Romanian rental market.
ANR can be contacted through their website, which is https://anr.org.ro/.
Conclusion
Renting property in Romania can be a great way to experience the country’s unique culture and history. By understanding the typical lease terms, differences between furnished and unfurnished rental properties, standard and optional lease clauses, and more, expats can make informed decisions when renting property in Romania. By choosing a reputable letting agent and familiarizing yourself with local laws and regulations, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable rental experience in Romania.
