Renting a home in another country is easier when you know what to expect. This guide explains the points that matter most before you sign a contract anywhere in Europe: the real monthly cost, the deposit, insurance, energy and internet, moving, and how to avoid scams. It is general information, not legal advice, and local rules change, so always check the details for the country and city you are moving to.
1. Work out what you can afford
A common rule of thumb is that rent and running costs should not be more than about one third of your net monthly income. Landlords often ask for proof of income, so keep recent payslips or a work contract ready.
Check whether the advertised rent is “cold” or “warm”. In Germany, for example, the cold rent (Kaltmiete) does not include service charges for heating, water and building services, while the warm rent (Warmmiete) does. Ask which costs are included, and whether electricity, gas, internet and local taxes are separate.
2. The rental deposit
Most landlords ask for a deposit that they hold as security. The amount and the rules differ by country: in Germany the legal limit is three months’ base rent, in France one month for an unfurnished home and two for a furnished one, in the Netherlands two months’ base rent for new contracts, and in England five weeks’ rent for most tenancies, protected in an approved scheme. Always get the amount, the account it is held in and the conditions for getting it back in writing.
3. Insurance for tenants
Your landlord insures the building, but not your belongings or the damage you might cause. Two kinds of cover are worth comparing before you move in:
- Tenant liability insurance (personal liability) pays if you accidentally damage the property or someone else’s belongings, for example a water leak. It is very common in Germany, Austria and the Netherlands, and cheap compared with the possible cost.
- Home contents insurance covers your own furniture, electronics and clothes against fire, water damage and theft. In France a home insurance policy is required for tenants.
Compare several offers, check the excess and the exclusions, and make sure the cover starts on the day you receive the keys.
4. Energy, heating and internet
Ask the landlord which electricity, gas and heating contracts already exist, and whether you have to open your own. Where you can choose a supplier, compare tariffs, because the price per kilowatt-hour and the contract length can make a real difference over a year. Take a photo of the meter readings on the day you move in and out. Check which broadband internet providers cover the address, and how long it takes to be connected, as this can be several weeks in some places.
5. Moving and registering
If you move a long distance or across a border, get at least three quotes from moving companies and book early, as the end of the month is the busiest time. Make a list of everyone who needs your new address: your bank, your employer, your insurers and your doctor.
Most countries expect you to register your new address with the local authority shortly after you arrive. In Germany this is required within 14 days of moving in, and you will usually need the landlord’s confirmation of residence. The registration is often needed to open a bank account, get a tax number or sign up for a phone contract.
6. Documents landlords usually ask for
- A valid ID or passport.
- Proof of income, such as payslips or an employment contract.
- A reference from a previous landlord, or a credit or rent-payment report where one is used (for example the Schufa report in Germany).
- In some countries, a guarantor, as is common in France.
7. Protect yourself from rental scams
- Never pay a deposit or rent before you have seen the home, or a video of it, and signed a contract.
- Be careful if the rent is far below similar homes, or if the “owner” says they are abroad and will send the keys.
- Do not send money by cash transfer services or gift cards.
- Check that the person who signs the contract is the owner or an authorised agent.
On Your new Home the owner’s contact details are never published, and we never ask for payment. If you are asked to pay anything in our name, please tell us straight away.
8. Ready to look?
Browse all homes for rent in Europe and send us your details from the listing page. We forward them to the owner, and if your profile suits them, they will contact you directly.