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When viewing an apartment, it might seem perfect: close to work, has air conditioning, a comfortable sofa. But you'll also have to live with agreements. Who will pay for a broken washing machine? When can the owner revise the rent? How will the security deposit be returned? It's best to ask these questions before moving in.
Make sure you know who you're signing the contract with
Ask to see the apartment documents and the ID of the person renting it out. If an agent or a relative of the owner is showing you the apartment, clarify who will sign the contract, on what grounds, and to whom you will transfer the money. Showing the apartment and having the right to rent it out are two different things.
Do not send money based solely on a promise to "take down the listing." First, inspect the property and agree on the documents. If the communication started in a messenger, save the correspondence with the price and conditions, but transfer the main agreements to the contract.
Record the conditions that affect daily life
In Uzbekistan, a residential lease agreement is made in writing; notarization is not required. The agreement must be registered with the tax authorities. These rules are outlined in the guide from the government portal. It also contains a link to the electronic registration service.
To prepare, you can open the official sample apartment rental agreement. Check that your document reflects your specific conditions and doesn't just repeat a ready-made template.
- Payment: amount, currency of settlement in accordance with applicable rules, date and method of payment, confirmation of receipt.
- Term: start and end dates, procedure for extension and notice of departure.
- Price revision: when it is possible and how the parties will agree on the change.
- Occupants: who will live in the apartment; conditions regarding pets, if this is important to you.
- Owner visits: how the time and reason for visits are agreed upon.
After registering the agreement, keep the confirmation and a copy of the agreement with both parties. Don't postpone this to an indefinite "later."
Separate rent from other expenses
Clarify what is included in the stated price. Electricity, water, gas, heating, internet, and building maintenance may be discussed separately. Ask to see recent bills: this will help you estimate the actual cost of living without guesswork.
On the day of handover, record the meter readings and document how the parties delineate previous charges and your payments. Separately agree on who reports malfunctions and pays for repairs to appliances, plumbing, and equipment. The phrase "minor repairs are at your expense" is too vague: it's more helpful to list specific situations.
Security deposit: discuss its return immediately
If the owner requests a sum for damages or unpaid bills, record its purpose. Can it be used towards the last month's rent? Within what timeframe is it returned after moving out? What deductions are allowed and what is their justification? The terms are determined by your agreement; don't assume both parties have the same understanding of the word "deposit."
Useful agreement: upon departure, the parties jointly inspect the apartment, reconcile payments, and document in writing the amount to be returned and the timeframe.
Accept the apartment in a way that avoids disputes over scratches later
Create an inventory of furniture and appliances. With the owner's permission, photograph the condition of the rooms, plumbing, kitchen surfaces, and any visible defects. Include these in the handover certificate or an addendum to the contract, agreed upon by both parties. Photos on your personal phone are helpful, but a jointly signed description leaves less room for ambiguity.
Check if the air conditioner turns on, if the windows close properly, if the faucets and appliances work. Record the number of keys. If a mattress was promised to be replaced or a water heater repaired, specify exactly what will be done and by what date.
What to take with you along with the keys
- Your copy of the signed contract and proof of registration.
- The agreed-upon inventory of property and description of the apartment's condition.
- Receipts for all payments, including the security deposit.
- Meter readings and contact information for household issues.
A good rental experience begins with a simple outcome: you understand how much you're paying, what you're responsible for, and how the contract will end. Then you can focus on moving, rather than clarifying rules after you've already moved in.
Sources: Government portal of the Republic of Uzbekistan — procedure for concluding a lease agreement and official sample contract. Practical checklist items — HATA recommendations for agreement between parties. Verified October 14, 2026. Cover illustration — HATA.
