Rent apartment in hangzhou FAQ

How to do the payment?

In Hangzhou, the standard rental payment term is usually "3 months' rent in advance + 1 month's rent as deposit". However, monthly payment is sometimes negotiable (note: landlords may ask for a slightly higher rent for monthly payment). Important reminder: If renting from a secondary agency (companies that sublet apartments from landlords), do not pay more than 3 months' rent in advance, as this may expose you to the risk of fraud.

Payment Term Distribution in Hangzhou: 10% Monthly, 10% Yearly, 50% Quarterly (every 3 months), 30% Semi-annually (every 6 months)

How to do the viewing?

Advance appointment is required for apartment viewings. Many residential communities require health code checks upon entry, so a PLUS agent will accompany you throughout the viewing process. Based on on-site research, our agency will provide a list of suitable apartment options for you to select from before the viewing. After visiting the apartments, we will help you analyze the pros and cons of each option and make comparisons to facilitate your decision-making. We are also happy to show you around nearby amenities, such as shopping centers, restaurants, and parks.

Tip: To save your time, we now offer online video viewings for most apartments.

Is the price negotiable?

The initial quoted rent is usually negotiable, and the final price depends on several factors: the length of the lease term (longer leases often have more room for negotiation), whether additional furniture is needed (or if existing furniture needs adjustments), the move-in date (immediate move-ins may be more flexible), and the current market rental price. As the saying goes, "timing, location, and a cooperative landlord" matter—our agency will do our best to negotiate the most favorable rent for you.

What to do before moving in the apartment?

Before moving in, we provide a standard bilingual rental contract and inventory list (recognized by expats in China). Our agency will settle any outstanding utility bills (water, electricity, gas) left by the previous tenant. Additionally, we will verify the functionality of electrical appliances and check for cracks or damages on walls. We will also require the landlord to thoroughly clean the apartment before your move-in. Suggestion: Take photos of the apartment’s condition (including furniture and appliances) and confirm with the landlord to ensure the full deposit is refunded when the lease expires (provided no new damages occur).

What is rental invoice?

A rental invoice (also known as "rent fapiao" or tax invoice in China) is an official tax document for rental payments.

- For landlords: Rental income is subject to personal income tax, and the invoice serves as proof of tax declaration.

- For tenants: It is a necessary document for accounting purposes (e.g., company reimbursement for rent).

- If the quoted rent does not include tax, tenants who need an invoice will be responsible for covering the tax cost.

PLUS Agency provides assistance with rental invoice application and processing.

What should be noticed after signing the contract?

Foreign tenants must bring their passport to register at the local police station (a mandatory procedure in China). Remember to pay utility bills (water, electricity, gas, internet) on time to avoid service disruptions. PLUS agents can assist with internet/wifi setup, which is essential for daily living. If furniture or appliances break down, contact our agency immediately for repairs. Last but not least, turn off gas appliances when leaving the apartment for an extended period to ensure safety.