What to check before signing a rental contract

Check the person signing is the owner or holds written authority from them. Ask to see identification and the document that connects them to the property, and keep a copy with your contract.

Almost every rental dispute traces back to one of these being vague.

• Inventory and condition — a dated photo set attached to the contract settles arguments a year later.
• Repairs — who pays for what, and what counts as fair wear.
• Bills — which utilities are included, at what allowance, and who holds the meter readings.
• Deposit — the exact conditions for return and the deadline for returning it.
• Access — how much notice the owner must give before visiting.
• Early termination — notice period, and whether you may sublet or assign.

Photograph the electricity and water meters when you receive the keys, and again when you leave. It costs a minute and removes the most common end-of-tenancy argument entirely.

Verbal side-agreements about repairs or extra furniture rarely survive a change of manager. Get amendments added to the contract or confirmed in your Pasaran message thread, which is timestamped.

For long terms or significant sums, have the contract reviewed by an independent, licensed professional before signing. This article is general information, not legal advice.