LONG TERM RENT

How to rent an apartment in the Czech Republic for a long term and what is a security deposit?

Are apartments in Prague rented to everyone,
and what are the steps to finalizing the deal?
Language Barrier

If you are not a native Czech speaker, renting an apartment in Prague can turn into quite a challenge.
The number of available options decreases, as Czech landlords often avoid communicating with foreigners (although some Russian-speaking landlords are available).
You may consider using the services of a makléř, which is the Czech equivalent of a realtor.

We recommend learning Czech at least at a basic level to understand the steps of the rental process, communicate with the landlord, and protect yourself from potential risks.

Nationality Issue
Sometimes landlords refuse to rent out their apartments simply because the potential tenant is a citizen of another country.
This doesn’t only apply to Russians but can also include Poles, African Americans, Indians, and others.
As a result, rental listings often include notes like: “Accepting everyone except... (followed by the landlord’s preferences)” or “No foreigners or pets allowed.”
Some local residents simply don’t like Slavs, while others are hesitant to rent to foreigners due to perceived risks.
For instance, a tenant might need to move out suddenly if their visa isn’t renewed, which happens frequently.
If you are serious about renting a specific apartment, make it clear to the landlord that you plan to stay in the country long-term and may even consider permanent relocation. Providing your documents can help reassure them. You can check for available options here.
Who Pays the Commission When a Landlord Uses a Realtor?
To save time, Czechs often use the services of a makléř (realtor). The specialist handles all the work: finding potential tenants, placing ads, arranging and conducting viewings, and preparing all necessary documents. Ideally, the person who hires the specialist pays the commission.
However, in Prague, it’s usually the tenant who covers the realtor’s fee—this is a unique feature of the Czech rental market.
The commission is typically equal to one month’s rent. However, if the landlord wants to rent out the property quickly, they may reduce the rental price or offer financial incentives to the realtor.

Can You Rent an Apartment Without a Realtor? Is Housing Rented Out Directly?
Yes, it is possible to rent an apartment on your own. In the Czech Republic, there are online platforms that compile all rental listings, as well as Facebook groups dedicated to real estate. Searching for housing independently can save you the equivalent of one month’s rent, but it’s unlikely to save you time or energy.
The number of listings without realtors is significantly smaller, so the chances of finding an apartment this way are lower.

What is “Kauce”?
Kauce is a security deposit that the tenant gives to the landlord as a guarantee for the preservation of the property. It is a financial deposit meant to cover any potential damage. Typically, the deposit does not exceed the cost of one month’s rent. However, if the apartment has high-quality renovations, expensive furniture, or appliances, the kauce may be higher at the landlord's discretion.

What Are the Components
of Rental Payments in the Czech Republic?
Rental payments for an apartment in the Czech Republic consist of three parts:
  1. Nájemné – This is the base rent for the property, paid directly to the landlord.
  2. Poplatky – These are communal fees. They include payments for cleaning services, sewage, elevator maintenance, and garbage collection. These expenses relate only to shared services and amenities. Tenants transfer these payments to the landlord, who then distributes them to the relevant service providers.
  3. Ulities - additionally, costs for gas, electricity, and water consumption are paid directly by the tenant through a deposit system, referred to as zálohy. In the Czech Republic, utility meters are linked to the individual consumer, not the property. Therefore, when a new tenant moves in, they must re-register the utility accounts in their name.
  4. Kauce – As previously mentioned, this is a security deposit that acts as insurance for the property owner.

Features of Czech Rental Listings
  1. Rental listings typically include only the street where the apartment is located. The exact address is provided to potential tenants just before the viewing.
  2. Authors of listings specify an estimated cost of utilities (poplatky).
  3. Czechs value their free time, so it’s better not to call the property owner (or even a Czech agent) on weekends or weekdays after 7:00 PM.
Practical Tips
To simplify your search for a suitable apartment, create a list of preferences for your future home. Also, prepare a set of questions to ask the landlord, such as:
  • Whether Wi-Fi is available.
  • If there is a parking space or storage unit (sklep).
  • The type of heating system.
  • Whether the landlord is willing to provide a prihlaška (residence registration), which is necessary for extending a residence permit.
How Is a Rental Agreement Concluded?
  • Viewing the Apartment:
The potential tenant inspects the apartment, furniture, and appliances, and asks the landlord any relevant questions. Note that you may be first in line or fifth, as Czechs typically follow a queue system.

  • Agreement Review:
If both parties agree, the landlord reviews the contract either on-site or at home. If necessary and feasible, amendments can be made to the agreement, such as allowing the tenant to change the locks on the front door.

  • Signing the Agreement:
Both parties sign the rental agreement, which can also be done remotely. The tenant then pays the rent, utility fees, security deposit (kauce), and the agent’s commission, if applicable.

  • Handover Document:
Alongside the contract, a handover document is prepared. This document records the current condition of the property, a list of furniture, and the initial meter readings. Be sure to verify the accuracy of all included data.


note

When moving into an apartment, make sure to rename the mailbox in the building and change the locks on the front door. If you plan to extend your residence permit (vízum), be prepared for potential visits from the police at any time, especially if you hold a visa for family reunification. They may check if you actually live at the registered address. Remember, after changing your address, you must inform your local Ministry of Interior office within 30 days.

In case of any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us :
E-mail: ms@mrealestate.cz
Telefon: +420 724 184 848
Facebook | Instagram | Whatsapp