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Your guide to Russia

Renting an Apartment in Moscow: A Glossary of Terms and Tips for Beginners

In this article, we have compiled the key terms of the rental market and practical advice to help you rent an apartment in Moscow safely and comfortably.

Renter's Glossary

Landlord (Lessor)
The owner of the apartment or their official representative who rents out the property for temporary use for a fee.
Tenant (Lessee, Renter)
A person or organization that temporarily resides in an apartment under the terms of a lease agreement.
Lease Agreement (Rental Agreement)
A legal document that records the rights and obligations of the parties: the lease term, payment amounts, conditions for the security deposit return, and other important points.
Security Deposit (Guarantee Payment)
A sum of money that the tenant pays upon move-in. It serves as a guarantee for the owner in case of property damage or utility debts. The deposit is refunded upon move-out if there are no claims.
Utilities
Payments for electricity, water, gas, heating, internet, etc. They are usually paid by the tenant, unless otherwise stated in the contract.
Realtor (Real Estate Agent)
A licensed specialist who helps find housing and complete the transaction. A "broker" is an unlicensed intermediary operating based on personal experience.
Lease Term
The period for which the contract is concluded. It can be either long-term (from several months) or short-term/daily.
Sublease
A situation where a tenant re-rents the apartment to another person. Often requires the landlord's consent. In the residential market, it is sometimes used by scammers—be careful!
Security Deposit
A sum, usually equivalent to 1–2 monthly payments, paid upon move-in. It is often used to pay for the last month's rent or is returned upon move-out.

Common Rental Problems and How to Avoid Them

Renting an Apartment Without the Owner's Knowledge
  • Problem: A scammer rents an apartment and then poses as the owner to rent it out to others.
  • Solution: Always request documents confirming ownership rights (an extract from the USRN - Unified State Register of Real Estate) and verify passport details.
Uncoordinated Renting by Co-owners
  • Problem: One of the owners rents out the apartment without notifying the others. As a result, the other owners may demand your eviction.
  • Solution: Make sure all co-owners are listed in the contract and agree to the rental.
"Overcrowded" Apartments
  • Problem: When renting a room during the day, it seems there are few tenants, but in the evening it turns out that 10–15 people live in the apartment.
  • Solution: Visit the apartment in the evening before signing the contract and talk to the neighbors.
Rental Terms Fraud
  • Problem: After move-in, the landlord unexpectedly tightens the conditions (for example, moves in animals) or refuses to return the deposit under far-fetched pretexts.
  • Solution: Discuss everything in advance and record it in the contract. Take photos of the apartment upon move-in.

How to Rent Safely: Key Rules

Check Documents
Request an extract from the USRN, check the landlord's passport, and utility bills.
Read the Contract Carefully
Make sure the contract clearly states: the rent amount, security deposit return conditions, payment schedule, and repair responsibilities.
Inspect the Apartment Upon Move-in
Complete an inspection report, photograph all defects and existing appliances. This will protect you from unreasonable claims when moving out.
Look for Housing on Trusted Platforms
Use large websites with verified listings:
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