A rent grounded in the local market
We compare your property with similar local rentals to help you set a realistic asking rent.
Before renting
Why use an agency to rent a property?
We take care of everything: setting the right rent, listings and photos, viewings, selecting and checking applicants, drafting the lease, the inventory and handing over the keys. For the landlord, that means time saved and a reliable tenant. For the tenant, it means one clear point of contact and an application handled quickly.
Since 1 August 2024, agency fees are shared equally between the landlord and the tenant.
What documents do I need to rent a property?
Usually: an identity document, an employment contract, your last three payslips (or other proof of income) and, if possible, a reference from your previous landlord. A complete application speeds things up.
Are pets allowed?
It depends on the property and the landlord. The lease can allow or refuse pets, and in an apartment building the co-ownership rules may also set conditions. Tell us about your pet from the start and we will check with the landlord.
At signing
How long is the lease?
A lease can be for a fixed term (often one year) or open-ended. A fixed-term lease that is not terminated in time is extended automatically. Since 2024, every residential lease must be in writing.
How much is the rental deposit?
The rental deposit is at most two months’ rent, excluding charges. It can be paid into a blocked account, provided as a bank guarantee, or take another form agreed in the lease.
What is tenant’s insurance?
Tenant’s insurance (home insurance for tenants) covers damage the tenant could cause to the home, such as a fire or water damage, as well as their civil liability. It is usually required by the lease.
Good to know
ImmoLosch works with a partner insurance agency that can offer you a suitable policy.
Is an inventory needed?
Yes. At move-in and move-out we draw up a detailed inventory, signed by both parties. It records the condition of the home and is the reference for returning the deposit.
During the tenancy
What is the difference between fixed charges and advance charges?
- Fixed charges
- A fixed amount agreed in the lease. There is no statement: you pay neither more nor less.
- Advance charges
- A provisional monthly amount. Once a year it is compared with the actual costs in a statement: you receive a refund or pay the difference.
When is the charges statement made?
Once a year. In a co-owned building, it depends on the building manager’s statement, which often arrives several months after the end of the year. We send it to you as soon as we receive it, with the supporting documents.
Can the rent or charges change during the tenancy?
Yes, within clear limits. The rent can be adjusted under the legal rules (see below). Advance charges can be adjusted after the annual statement, to bring them closer to the actual costs.
When can the rent be adjusted?
The rent can be adjusted at most once every two years, up or down. Indexation applies only to commercial leases: a residential lease is not indexed.
How much can the landlord raise the rent?
An increase is limited to 10% per adjustment. In addition, the total annual rent can never exceed 5% of the capital invested in the home.
End of the tenancy
What is my notice period?
It depends on your contract. Notice is usually three months. Note that some contracts only allow termination on the anniversary of the lease. Check your contract or contact us.
How do I terminate my lease as a tenant?
Send your notice by registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt, respecting the notice period in your contract. The notice period starts when the letter is received.
Can the landlord terminate the lease?
Only for reasons set out in law, for example:
- If they need the home for themselves or a first-degree family member (parents or children), with six months’ notice.
- If the tenant does not meet their obligations, for example unpaid rent.
- For another serious and legitimate reason.
When is the rental deposit returned?
If the rent and charges are paid and the move-out inventory shows no damage, part of the deposit is returned within a month of handing back the keys. The balance is returned once the charges statement has been received. If the return is delayed without good reason, the landlord must pay late-payment penalties.