Rental agreement in the Czech Republic for foreigners (2026)

What the lease must cover

Czech apartment leases are governed by the Civil Code (especially § 2235 et seq.). Written form is standard practice.

Key points: parties, apartment address, rent and utilities, deposit, term, rules (pets, subletting), and handover.

• Deposit (kauce) — often up to three months’ rent; return rules should be clear
• Notice periods — differ for fixed vs indefinite term
• Handover protocol — meter readings and defects; keep photos

Before you sign

Read the Czech PDF carefully even if you use the English annex. Compare rent, fees and end date with what you agreed verbally.

Ask for energy certificate (PENB) when relevant and confirm who registers your address if needed.

Czech contract + English translation annex

For rental agreements, the PDF contains the primary Czech lease wording first, then an explanatory English translation annex.

The translation helps you understand clauses before signing; it is not a certified translation for authorities.

• SmlouvaHned is a software tool, not a law firm or attorney.
• This article is informational only — not legal services (Act No. 85/1996 Coll., on the legal profession) and not immigration advice.
• Documents are generated primarily in Czech. Where offered, translations are explanatory only, not certified or official.
• If the text differs, the Czech wording prevails.