Checklist for Expats:

✅ Tips for Dealing with Romanian Landlords & Rental Contracts: A Checklist for Expats

Renting a home in Romania as a foreigner can be a smooth experience — if you know what to expect or if working with, a good rental agency. Whether you’re relocating to Bucharest, Brasov, Cluj, or any other city, understanding how to deal with landlords and rental contracts is essential.

Here’s a practical, easy-to-follow checklist that will help you avoid common mistakes and make informed decisions when renting in Romania.

📝 Before You Start Searching

• ✅ Know your budget – Factor in not just rent, but utilities, monthly maintenance fees (“întreținere”), and the security deposit.
• ✅ Understand typical rental terms – Most leases are for 12 months with a one-month notice period and 1–2 months’ deposit.
• ✅ Furnished or unfurnished? – Many Romanian rentals are fully furnished, but some are partially or completely unfurnished.

🔍 Finding the Right Property

• ✅ Use trusted websites and agents – Stick to reliable platforms like OLX, Storia, or Imobiliare.ro. Better yet, work with a reputable English-speaking agent or agency, such as ourselves at www.whitemountain.ro. You can see our reviews on Google Maps here
• ✅ Watch out for scams – Avoid listings with no photos, vague descriptions, or deals that seem too good to be true.
• ✅ Visit the property in person or request a walk around video before viewing in person– Photos can be outdated or staged.

🧑‍💼 Dealing with Landlords or Agents

• ✅ Confirm ownership – Are you speaking with the property owner or a third party? Get clarity upfront.
• ✅ Language matters – If the landlord doesn’t speak English, bring someone who can translate key discussions.
• ✅ Clarify responsibilities – Who handles repairs, broken appliances, and maintenance issues?

📄 What to Check in Your Rental Contract

• ✅ Get everything in writing – Never rely on verbal agreements. A written lease is a must.
• ✅ Bilingual is best – Ask for a contract in both Romanian and English, or have a certified translation made.
• ✅ Ensure legal registration – The contract should be registered with ANAF (the Romanian tax authority), especially if you need it for immigration/residency purposes.
• ✅ Check the details:
  • Deposit amount and return conditions
  • Rent payment terms (due date, method)
  • Notice period for moving out (usually 30 days)
  • Rules on pets, smoking, and guests
  • Responsibility for utilities and building fees
• ✅ Document property condition – List existing damages or wear-and-tear in an annexe, and take dated photos and, if possible, upload a video with private access only to YouTube or other streaming site, and share it with the owner.

💵 Deposits & Payments

• ✅ Avoid paying in cash unless it's written down – Use bank transfers whenever possible and always request a receipt.
• ✅ Ask for a rent receipt or invoice – Important for immigration or legal purposes.
• ✅ Understand the deposit – One month’s rent is standard; two is sometimes requested for furnished or high-end apartments.

🧯 During Your Stay

• ✅ Report problems in writing – Use email, WhatsApp, or SMS to create a record.
• ✅ Keep all receipts – For rent, utilities, and any services you arrange during your stay, or email yourself a photo.
• ✅ Know your rights – A landlord cannot evict you without due legal process, even if the contract ends.

🧳 Moving Out

• ✅ Give written notice – Respect the notice period in your contract (usually 30 days).
• ✅ Schedule a move-out inspection – Do this before returning keys.
• ✅ Document everything – Take photos/videos of the apartment’s condition.
• ✅ Request your deposit – It should be returned unless damage beyond normal wear is found.
• ✅ Return the apartment as received – Hire a cleaner well in advance and make sure mattresses, sofa, fabric chairs, etc, are restored for the next occupant. Leave the fridge, oven, and extractor clean, as the next user won't be happy to see traces of use or grime.

🛡️ Bonus Tips for Peace of Mind

• 🔒 Change the locks when moving in, if permitted (with landlord’s consent).
• Use a contract registered with ANAF, especially if you’re applying for Romanian residency.
• 📂 Keep copies of everything – Lease, proof of rent payments, utility bills, and landlord’s contact info, and again, email them to yourself as a back up.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Dealing with landlords and leases in Romania doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and an understanding of local norms, you can rent confidently and avoid common pitfalls. Use this checklist as your guide — and if in doubt, don’t hesitate to consult a local real estate agent or legal advisor.

Want help finding your perfect rental in Romania?
Contact the White Mountain team – we’re here to support you every step of the way and have helped thousands of people find their perfect home since 2006. Contact damian.galvin@whitemountain.ro or WhatsApp +40727606074 for more details.