Lease term

 

Leasing Conditions

Most properties are leased out in good decorative condition, furnished, and often but not always provided with appliances which may include cookers, refrigerators, washing machines,and air-conditioners, but excluding soft furnishings such as carpets and quilt. Except for serviced apartments, there are far fewer furnished apartments available, and these few are usually smaller units with only one or two bedrooms.

Air-conditioners are essential for comfortable living during the summer months and, if not provided by the Landlord, will need to be installed by the tenant.

There are also serviced apartments available offering good to excellent facilities for short lease periods of three months or longer. The rentals for these units are comparatively higher. Most have one or two bedrooms units are available.

 

Rentals

Rentals are usually in Renminbi payable monthly in advance and, except for serviced apartments, are usually exclusive of monthly management fees and Government rates, for which an additional 10% to 15% of the rent should be budgeted.

 

Deposits

These are usually equivalent to one or two, occasionally three, months' rental and are payable to the landlord when an offer to lease is accepted. Once the Lease Agreement is signed, the deposit is held by the Landlord without interest, and refunded to the tenant upon expiration of the lease. The cost of any damage or reinstatement work necessary to the apartment, other than fair wear and tear, will be deducted from the deposit before repayment.

 

Lease Agreement

Usually one year fixed lease. There are some service apartments available offering fully-furnished suites for short periods(1-6 months), most two year leases will include a tenant's break-clause allowing the tenant to give 2 or 3 months written notice at any time after 9-10 months of the lease. This means that tenants have a minimum stay of 12 months without incurring a penalty should they decide to leave.

 

Government Rates & Rent

Rent Rates are a form of property tax on leased accommodation, assessed by and payable to Government at 4.5% of rental (0<monthly rent<5000rmb) or at 6.18% of monthly rental (rental>=5000rmb). These charges are payable usually quarterly in advance by the tenant.

 

Management Fee

These fees, payable by all occupants, provide for communal services such as security guards, cleaning and maintenance of common areas and amenities. The amount varies according to the age and number of units in a building and the type of amenities or quality of services provided.

 

Agency Fee

An introductory fee of half of one month's rental is payable by the tenant. In accordance with local practice, the agent may also accept a fee from a third party such as the Landlord. Package details available to corporations on request.

 

Utilities

Except for serviced apartments, it is the tenant's obligation to arrange for connection of utilities such as gas, electricity ,water and telephone/fax lines.