Before You Sign a Lease in China: A 12-Point Checklist

The checklist

1. Who is the landlord? Ask whether you're renting from the owner, an agent acting for the owner, or a sublessor.
2. The address in the contract matches the apartment you saw, down to the unit number.
3. Rent and payment schedule: many leases ask for rent several months at a time; get the schedule in writing.
4. Deposit: the amount and the conditions and timing for getting it back.
5. Agent's fee: how much, who pays, and whether it's refundable.
6. What's included: management fee, internet, furniture, appliances, parking.
7. Utilities: how electricity, water and gas are paid, and the meter readings on move-in day.
8. Repairs: who fixes what, and how quickly.
9. Early termination: the notice period and the penalty if you leave early.
10. Invoices (fapiao): if your employer reimburses rent, check whether the landlord can provide them.
11. Registration: the landlord's help with your police accommodation registration within 24 hours.
12. Move-in record: photos and video of every room, signed or acknowledged by the landlord.

If you're signing before you arrive, have someone see the apartment for you first. A Property Check includes the condition of each room and a record you can keep.

Questions

Sources

• Shanghai: Accommodation registration (Shanghai government)

This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. Rules differ by city and change; check with the local authorities or a qualified lawyer.