Rent an Apartment in Lithuania: A Complete Guide

How to Rent an Apartment in Lithuania:
A Complete Guide

Renting an apartment in Lithuania is an exciting prospect, whether you're moving to the capital, Vilnius, or looking for a quieter spot in one of its charming towns. This guide will help you understand the rental process, types of properties, and legal considerations when renting in Lithuania.

1. Types of Rental Properties in Lithuania

• Studio Apartments (1 Kambario Butas): A small apartment with a combined living and sleeping area, kitchenette, and bathroom.
• One-Bedroom Apartments (2 Kambarių Butas): A separate bedroom, living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
• Two-Bedroom Apartments (3 Kambarių Butas): Larger apartments with two separate bedrooms.
• Furnished vs. Unfurnished Apartments: Furnished apartments come with essential furniture, while unfurnished apartments may require tenants to bring their own.

2. Steps to Renting an Apartment in Lithuania

Step 1: Set Your Budget

Average Rent Prices (Monthly):

• Vilnius: €400 - €700 for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, €300 - €500 in the suburbs.
• Kaunas: €300 - €500 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Smaller towns: €200 - €400 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Additional Costs: Utilities (water, electricity, heating), internet, and tenant insurance.

Step 2: Choose Your Location

Factors to Consider:

• Proximity to Work/School: Consider the distance to your workplace or educational institution.
• Public Transportation: Availability of buses, trolleybuses, or trams, especially in larger cities.
• Local Amenities: Access to grocery stores, restaurants, hospitals, and schools.
• Safety: Research local neighborhoods for safety and security.

Step 3: Search for Apartments

Online Platforms:

• Ober-Haus (ober-haus.lt)
• Domoplius (domoplius.lt)
• Eldes (eldes.lt)
• Skelbiu (skelbiu.lt)

Real Estate Agencies (NT Agentūros): Professional services for apartment search, viewings, and handling rental contracts. Agency fees are typically one month's rent or 50% of the rent plus VAT.

Step 4: Prepare Your Rental Application (Nuomos Paraiška)

Required Documents:

• Proof of Identity: Passport or ID card.
• Proof of Income: Last 3 months' payslips or a work contract.
• Proof of Residency or Visa Status: For foreign nationals, provide a visa or residence permit.
• References: Previous landlord references, if applicable.

Step 5: View Apartments and Make an Offer

In-Person Viewings: Schedule viewings and check the condition of the property.

Negotiation: Rent is often negotiable, especially for longer-term leases or properties in less competitive areas.

Questions to Ask:

• Are utilities included in the rent, or are they separate?
• What is the cost of heating (important during colder months)?
• Are there any additional maintenance fees (e.g., waste management)?

Step 6: Sign the Lease Agreement (Nuomos Sutartis)

Types of Contracts:

• Standard Lease: Typically for 12 months with automatic renewal.
• Short-Term Lease: Less than 12 months, often with higher rent prices.
• Furnished Lease: Includes basic furniture and appliances.

Key Clauses to Review:

• Rent amount and payment date.
• Tenant and landlord responsibilities (repairs, utilities, and property maintenance).
• Lease duration and termination conditions.
• Notice period for ending the contract (typically 1-3 months).

Step 7: Pay the Deposit and First Month’s Rent

Deposit (Garantinis Mokestis): Typically 1-2 months' rent, refundable at the end of the lease.

First Month’s Rent: Usually paid upfront along with the deposit.

Step 8: Conduct the Inventory Check (Turto Būklės Patikrinimas)

An inventory check should be done before moving in, with the landlord or property agent present. It should document the condition of the apartment, noting any existing damage. Both parties should sign the report.

3. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities in Lithuania

Tenant Rights:

• Rent Control: There are no strict rent controls, but rent increases are typically regulated within the lease agreement.
• Minimum Habitability Standards: The property must be safe, habitable, and comply with health and safety standards.
• Security of Tenure: A tenant cannot be evicted without following legal procedures.
• Deposit Protection: The deposit must be returned within 30 days of the lease termination, minus any deductions for damages or unpaid rent.

Tenant Responsibilities:

• Rent Payment: Pay rent on time as specified in the lease agreement.
• Property Maintenance: Basic upkeep and minor repairs are the tenant's responsibility.
• Damage Reporting: Report any damage or maintenance issues promptly to avoid liability.
• Respect Lease Terms: Follow rules regarding noise, subletting, and guests.

4. Common Additional Costs in Lithuania

When renting an apartment in Lithuania, there are additional costs beyond the rent. These costs can vary based on the property, location, and the services provided by the landlord. Here's an overview:

Cost	Approximate Amount
Rent	€200 - €700/month depending on location
Utilities (Water, Gas, Electricity)	€50 - €150/month
Internet and TV	€15 - €40/month
Tenant Insurance (Būsto Draudimas)	€5 - €15/month
Real Estate Agency Fees	One month's rent or 50% of rent + VAT

5. Tips for a Smooth Rental Experience

• Prepare Your Documentation: Have all required documents ready, including proof of income and references, as competition for rental properties can be high.
• Understand the Lease Terms: Make sure you understand the length of the lease, rent adjustments, and the notice period.
• Check Property Condition: Inspect the apartment carefully during the inventory check to ensure it is in good condition and there are no disputes later.
• Understand Local Costs: Be aware of utilities and maintenance fees, which are often separate from the rent.

6. Conclusion

Renting an apartment in Lithuania is relatively straightforward, but understanding the local rental market and tenant rights is essential. Whether you are moving to a major city like Vilnius or Kaunas, or to a quieter town, make sure to prepare your application well, review your lease terms, and know your responsibilities as a tenant. By following this guide, you will be well on your way to finding a great rental property in Lithuania.

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