What Should a Rental Agreement for an Apartment Include? A Complete Guide

Signing a rental agreement is a crucial step in the leasing process, as it guarantees security for both the landlord and the tenant. Moreover, it serves as an effective tool for resolving potential disputes. Below is a comprehensive guide to the essential elements that a rental agreement should include.

Parties to the Agreement

The agreement should include the full details of both the landlord and the tenant, such as:

• Full name,
• Residential address,
• ID document number (e.g., passport or PESEL),
• Contact details (phone number, email address).

If the property has multiple owners but only one of them is signing the agreement, a power of attorney from the other owners must be attached.

Description of the Apartment

The description of the apartment should include essential details, such as the property address, floor area, number of rooms, technical condition, and furnishings, to ensure clarity and transparency in the agreement.

• Property address (street, apartment number, postal code, city),
• Floor area (in square meters),
• Number of rooms (e.g., bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen),
• Technical condition (e.g., newly renovated or requires refreshing),
• Furnishings (e.g., furniture, household appliances).

For those considering rental properties in Poznań for investors, particular attention should be paid to the location and standard of the property to attract long-term tenants.

Lease Duration

The agreement can be for a fixed or indefinite term. Therefore, it is recommended to specify the start and end date of the lease, as well as the terms for extending or terminating the agreement.

Financial Terms

Clearly outline the following:

• Monthly rental amount,
• Payment deadlines, e.g., by the 10th of each month,
• Additional charges, such as utilities or administrative fees.

In Poland, utilities are often prepaid; however, they are later adjusted based on actual usage.

Security Deposit

The standard security deposit equals one month’s rent, but the amount may vary depending on the property’s standard. Define the conditions for returning the deposit and, additionally, the situations in which it may be withheld.

Responsibilities of the Parties

• Landlord: Responsible for repairing major faults, such as heating systems or electrical installations.
• Tenant: Responsible for maintaining cleanliness and performing minor repairs, such as replacing light bulbs.

If you’re interested in renting apartments in Poznań, especially in popular areas, it’s a good idea to discuss these details with the landlord in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Occupants

The agreement should include a list of all occupants, including children.

Additional Terms

Include specific conditions such as:

• Permission or prohibition of pets,
• Smoking rules,
• Subleasing policies.

Handover Protocol

The handover protocol is an annex to the rental agreement but not an integral part of it. It should include:

• A detailed description of the apartment’s condition and its furnishings (e.g., condition of walls, floors, furniture, appliances),
• Meter readings (electricity, gas, water) on the day the apartment is handed over.

Accurate recording of meter readings helps avoid disputes over utility bills and ensures transparency in financial matters between the parties.

In conclusion, signing a rental agreement is not just a formality but an essential step to ensure the legal protection of both parties.