Guide to Long-Term Property Rental - Rights and Obligations of the Tenant and Landlord

At the end of summer and the beginning of the new school and academic year, the real hunt for rental apartments begins, mostly in Zagreb, but also in other university cities in Croatia. Good apartments with affordable prices quickly disappear from the market, and since the competition is strong, it is important to be fast, but also well-informed. In addition to comparing prices, the location of apartments and proximity to faculties or workplaces, there is also a series of legal issues that you must keep in mind whether you are a landlord or a tenant.

The Zagreb Apartment Rental Market – What You Need to Know?

The Zagreb apartment rental market has had stable demand for years, especially towards the new academic year, when students compete for the best and most affordable housing solutions. However, in order to find a good apartment, renting an apartment in Zagreb should be considered according to several factors: price, location, availability of amenities and conditions in the apartment. In addition, the market is influenced by seasonal changes, and competition in popular areas (such as the city center, neighborhoods near faculties or business centers) can be very strong.

How to Determine the Real Price of Rent?

Determining the real price for renting an apartment can be challenging, especially when it comes to a highly competitive market, such as Zagreb's. Landlords often compare the prices of similar apartments in the same area, while tenants are usually inclined to negotiate in order to get a better offer. The rent price in Zagreb varies depending on various factors, including location, apartment size and additional amenities (such as parking, air conditioning, quality equipment). One of the most important factors for determining the rent price is also seasonal demand. Namely, in summer and before the start of the academic year, prices can rise due to increased demand.


Legal Aspects of Long-Term Rent – Rights and Obligations of Both Parties

Whether you are a tenant or a landlord, it is important to know your rights and obligations. The landlord, for example, is obliged to ensure that the apartment is in good condition and habitable, and the tenant has the right to peaceful enjoyment of that apartment without interference. For the tenant, renting an apartment in Zagreb also means responsibility for regular rent payments and care for the apartment according to the terms of the contract. On the other hand, the landlord must make the apartment available on time, maintain common areas and resolve technical breakdowns in the apartment. Co-ownership agreement, which is often concluded for buildings with multiple apartments, sets the framework for mutual relations, and it is also important to know who pays the utilities, and what happens in case of delays with the rent payment. In all this, the rental agreement must be clear and signed by both parties in order to avoid disagreements.

PSample Lease Agreement see here.

PRights and Duties of the Tenant

As a tenant, you have certain rights that allow you to use the apartment without interruption. This includes the right to peaceful enjoyment of the apartment, the right to maintain privacy and the right to safety and comfort in the space you are renting. In addition, the tenant has the obligation to pay rent and utilities on time, to maintain the apartment in good condition, and to inform the landlord of all necessary repairs or breakdowns.
If problems occur in the apartment (e.g. technical failures, damage), the tenant is responsible for reporting them to the landlord, but the landlord is usually responsible for major repairs. The tenant must also adhere to the house rules and respect the rules related to the use of common areas if the building has them.

Rights and Duties of the Landlord

As a landlord, you are obliged to ensure that the apartment is habitable and in good condition when handed over to the tenant. This means that it is your task to ensure that the apartment meets all the necessary technical conditions for living, and that everything is in function (e.g. heating, electricity, water). In addition, the landlord is obliged to maintain the apartment in good condition during the lease, especially if unexpected breakdowns occur.
The landlord also has the right to request timely payment of rent and utilities from the tenant. If the tenant does not pay on time or does not respect the terms of the contract, the landlord can take appropriate measures, including termination of the lease. In addition, the landlord is responsible for the timely return of the deposit at the end of the lease, if no damage has been caused to the apartment.

Resolving Disagreements

Although the obligations of both parties should be clearly defined in the contract, in real life disagreements can still arise. The largest number of disagreements relate to non-payment of rent, damage caused by the tenant or disagreements with other tenants regarding the use of common areas. In such situations, it is important to maintain good and decent communication and try to find a peaceful solution, but it is always good to have a legal framework as a basis. The landlord may claim compensation for damage to the apartment or disagreements related to the lease, and the tenant may request an explanation or a reduction in price if the apartment does not meet the conditions or is not maintained. If disagreements cannot be resolved directly, there is a legal way to resolve them, and the landlord can file a lawsuit in court.

The Key to Success is in Agreement

Whether you are a landlord looking for a stable source of income or a tenant who wants a safe and comfortable place to live, the key to success is a clear agreement. Signing a lease agreement that defines the rights and obligations of both parties guarantees that renting an apartment in Zagreb will be carefree and safe for both parties. Given that rights and obligations are clearly defined by law, it is important to follow the market and be well informed about all conditions. This way you will be sure that you have chosen the best option for yourself, whether you are looking for an apartment or renting it out.