How to Rent an Apartment in Chisinau?Questions and Answers about Apartment Rentals in Moldova’s Capital

Recently, Chișinău has become a temporary refuge for many refugees and displaced persons from Ukraine, including seafarers. The city is chosen for its proximity to Ukraine, the possibility of communication in Russian, and access to education in Russian and Ukrainian for children. Historical ties or relatives in Moldova also play a role. Since early 2022, Moldova has been welcoming and actively helping Ukrainians. However, due to increased demand for housing in Chișinău, certain nuances and challenges have emerged in the rental process.

Where to Find an Apartment for Rent in Chișinău

Using the Marketplace 999.md
999.md is a popular marketplace in Moldova, where fresh rental ads are regularly posted. Some listings come directly from property owners, while others are posted by realtors. Be cautious, as some realtors might post fake ads to attract clients. Always request photos or organize a viewing of the apartment before signing a contract.

Realtors
Realtors can significantly simplify the search process, especially if you need housing for a short period. They have a better understanding of the market and can identify landlords who accept short-term leases. Typically, the landlord pays for the realtor’s services, so be wary if asked to pay for viewings or other services. Ensure all details and conditions are clarified before working with a realtor.

Facebook Groups
Social media platforms like Facebook are also good resources for apartment searches. Groups often feature listings directly from landlords. However, be mindful of the language in the listings, as many are in Romanian, which might complicate communication and understanding.

Features of Renting an Apartment in Chișinău

Checking the Apartment

Condition of the Property: Pay attention to the apartment’s condition and equipment. In older buildings, central heating is common, and even if individual boilers are installed, heating pipes may still run through, adding to utility costs. Hot water can also be expensive if no boiler is installed. Low rental costs in older buildings might be offset by high utility bills.
Furniture and Appliances: Check what furniture and appliances are included in the rental. Consider whether there is an air conditioner or dishwasher. Note that air conditioners are not widespread in Chișinău, even in new apartments.

Choosing the Apartment

Location and Building Type: Decide whether you prefer a new or old building, as this affects utility costs and quality of life. New high-rises often have autonomous heating but may suffer from poor insulation due to cheap panoramic windows. Check bathrooms and areas behind furniture for mold.
Shared Utility Meters: In some small apartment buildings, a shared gas meter is used, complicating compensation calculations for gas usage. Discuss utility payment arrangements with the landlord to avoid unexpected expenses.

Safety and Convenience

Parking: Check the availability and conditions of parking in the area. New buildings might have parking lots, but finding a spot can still be difficult, and a single parking space might cost around €50 per month. In non-secured parking areas, thefts of license plates or vehicle damage can occur. Also, consider “customary parking,” where neighbors claim spots informally. Avoid parking in ways that might lead to conflicts or vehicle towing.

Signing a Rental Agreement in Chișinău

Document Verification: When signing an agreement, ensure the landlord provides property documents and their personal ID (buletin in Moldova). If the landlord is abroad and another person signs the agreement, verify their power of attorney.
Types of Agreements:
- Official Agreement: Registered through the tax office, with the landlord paying around 7% tax. This agreement is valid for use in banks and humanitarian organizations for rent compensation.
- Informal Agreement: Based solely on mutual trust, this type has no legal standing in disputes.
Deposit: Many landlords require a double deposit—one for the property and another as a guarantee against early termination. Negotiate and document the condition of the property during move-in. Creating a detailed video of the property with a timestamp is advisable to prevent disputes upon moving out.
Caution: Be wary of individuals claiming to be relatives of landlords offering to rent without formal agreements. Never pay deposits to such individuals. With informal agreements, landlords may unilaterally increase the rent or terminate the agreement unexpectedly, leaving you with limited recourse.

This article is part of a series on living in Chișinău. In the next article, we will explore Chișinău’s districts and housing prices to help you make an even more informed choice. Stay tuned for updates!