Most landlords in Hangzhou are honest, but a lease in a foreign language is easy to misunderstand. This Hangzhou rental checklist covers what to check before you sign, so your deposit comes back when you leave.
1. Check who you are renting from
- Ask to see the property ownership certificate (不动产权证书) and the landlord's ID. The names must match.
- If someone other than the owner is renting to you (a "second landlord"), ask for the owner's written permission to sublet and the original lease.
- If an agent is involved, ask which agency they work for and how their fee is calculated, in writing.
2. Agree the money in writing
- Rent and the payment schedule: monthly, every three months ("one deposit, three rent") or other.
- Deposit: usually one to two months' rent, refundable.
- Who pays what: property management fee, internet, parking, repairs.
- Invoice: if your employer needs an official rental invoice (fapiao), confirm the landlord can provide one before you sign.
- Pay to the right account: preferably the owner's bank account, and keep every receipt.
3. Read the clauses that cause disputes
- Early termination: what happens if you leave early because of a job change? Often part or all of the deposit is lost. Ask for a clear rule, such as one month's notice and finding a replacement tenant.
- Repairs: who fixes the water heater, air conditioning and appliances, and how fast?
- Rent increases on renewal.
- Deposit return: within how many days of moving out, and what can be deducted.
- Language: ask for a bilingual lease or have every clause explained before you sign.
4. Move-in inventory
On the day you get the keys, walk through the home with the landlord or agent. Photograph and film every room, list the furniture and appliances, note existing damage and read the electricity, water and gas meters. Send the photos to the landlord in a chat so there is a dated record.
Warning signs of a rental scam
- The price is far below other homes in the same compound.
- You are asked to pay a deposit before viewing, or "today only".
- The person cannot show the ownership certificate, or the names do not match.
- Payment goes to a personal account that is not the owner's.
- A company offers a big discount for paying a whole year in advance. Some rent-to-rent operators have collapsed in past years, leaving tenants who had prepaid without a home.
After you sign
Register your address with the police within 24 hours (see police registration in Hangzhou), set up utilities and keep a copy of the lease. Our full guide to renting an apartment in Hangzhou walks through every step, and the first-week checklist covers everything else.
Frequently asked questions
What documents should a landlord in Hangzhou show me?
The property ownership certificate and their ID, with matching names. A second landlord should also show the owner's written permission to sublet.
How much deposit is normal in Hangzhou?
One to two months' rent is typical, plus rent paid in advance, often three months at a time.
Will I get my deposit back if I leave early?
Only if the lease says so. Many leases keep part or all of the deposit for early termination, so agree a clear rule before you sign.