What to Look for in a Rental Contract – A Tenant’s Checklist

What to Look for in a Rental Contract – A Tenant’s Checklist

Before signing a lease, ensure it includes:

✔️ Rental price and payment terms
✔️ Deposit amount and refund conditions
✔️ Lease duration and termination clauses
✔️ Utility responsibilities (water, electricity, internet)
✔️ Maintenance and repair obligations
Reading and understanding these terms prevents future disputes.

Signing a rental contract is an important step in securing your home, but it’s crucial to carefully review all terms before agreeing to anything. A well-drafted lease agreement protects both parties and ensures that you know your rights and obligations as a tenant. Here’s a checklist of essential elements to look for in your rental contract to avoid surprises and future disputes.

✔️ Rental Price and Payment Terms

The most obvious detail to check is the rental price and payment terms. Make sure the contract clearly states:

• Monthly rent amount

• Payment due date (e.g., the 1st of every month)

• Late payment fees, if applicable

• Payment method (bank transfer, cash, etc.)

💡 Tip: Ensure that the rent amount matches what was agreed upon before signing, and double-check that there are no hidden increases that could take effect during your tenancy.

✔️ Deposit Amount and Refund Conditions

The deposit is often required as a safeguard for landlords, but it’s important that the amount and conditions for returning it are outlined clearly. Your rental contract should include:

• Amount of the deposit (usually one or two months’ rent)

• Conditions for refunding the deposit at the end of your lease

• Deductions (e.g., for damages, unpaid rent, or utility bills)

💡 Tip: If any damages or repairs are noted during the move-in inspection, make sure these are documented in writing to avoid disputes over the deposit later.

✔️ Lease Duration and Termination Clauses

It’s important to know how long you’ll be renting the property and under what conditions you can end the lease. Your contract should specify:

• Lease start and end dates

• Notice periods (usually 1–3 months)

• Early termination clauses (under what conditions can you break the lease early?)

💡 Tip: If you anticipate needing flexibility, check if the lease allows you to sublet the property or if there are any penalties for breaking the lease early.

✔️ Utility Responsibilities (Water, Electricity, Internet)

Clarify which utilities are included in the rent and which are your responsibility. The contract should outline:

• Who is responsible for paying (landlord or tenant) for utilities like water, electricity, internet, and gas

• Average monthly utility costs (if applicable)

• Procedure for transferring utilities into your name (if needed)

💡 Tip: Some landlords include utilities in the rent, while others require tenants to pay them separately. Always double-check to avoid unexpected costs.

✔️ Maintenance and Repair Obligations

Understanding who handles repairs and maintenance is vital. Your contract should clearly define:

• Landlord’s responsibility for major repairs (e.g., plumbing, structural issues)

• Tenant’s responsibility for minor repairs or routine maintenance (e.g., replacing light bulbs, cleaning filters)

• Procedure for reporting issues and how quickly repairs will be addressed

💡 Tip: If something is broken or needs repair when you move in, get it in writing that the landlord will address it, or that it’s already noted as an existing issue.

Bonus: Additional Key Considerations

Pets and Guests

If you have pets or expect to host guests regularly, check whether the contract has any clauses related to these. Ensure:

• Pet policy (whether pets are allowed, any pet deposits, or restrictions on certain breeds)

• Guest policy (whether there are limitations on the number of guests or length of stay)

Insurance

Check whether the landlord has insurance coverage for the property, and consider getting renters’ insurance for your belongings.

Renewal Terms

Find out if the contract includes a renewal clause and any adjustments to rent upon renewal.

Final Thoughts: Protect Yourself with a Thorough Lease Review

Before signing your rental agreement, make sure you fully understand the terms and conditions to avoid any future conflicts or misunderstandings. By checking these essential elements, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free tenancy.

🏡 Need help understanding your rental contract? Contact Rent on Malta for professional assistance and guidance in securing the perfect rental!