How to Rent an Apartment in China

Short Answer

Modern apartment buildings in a Chinese city

High-rise apartment buildings are the norm in Chinese cities

Deep Dive

Finding an Apartment

• Real estate agents (Zhongjie) -- the dominant method. Agents show you apartments and charge a commission, usually 50% of one month's rent. Walk into any Lianjia, Beike, or Zhongyuan storefront
• Lianjia/Beike app -- the largest rental platform in China. The app shows photos, prices, and locations. Some listings are in English, but most are Chinese
• 58.com and Anjuke -- alternative platforms with more listings but less quality control
• Expat groups on WeChat -- many cities have housing groups where landlords post directly
• Word of mouth -- ask colleagues and friends. Direct landlord deals avoid agent fees
• Xiaohongshu (RED) -- increasingly popular for apartment hunting, especially in trendy neighborhoods

Understanding Rental Types

• Zhengzu -- standard rental from the landlord. Most common and recommended
• Hezu -- shared apartment. You rent a room in a larger unit
• Er Shoufang Dong -- sublet from a previous tenant. Be cautious -- verify the lease terms
• Serviced apartments -- fully furnished with utilities included. More expensive but hassle-free

The Contract (Hetong)

• Duration -- typically 12 months. Shorter leases exist but cost more per month
• Rent amount and payment schedule (usually monthly or quarterly)
• Deposit (Yajin) -- standard is two months' rent, returned at lease end minus deductions
• Agent fee -- usually 50% of one month's rent, paid upfront
• Utilities -- clarify who pays for electricity, water, gas, internet, and property management fees (wuye fei)
• Maintenance responsibilities -- who fixes broken appliances, plumbing, etc.
• Early termination clause -- typically requires 1-2 months' notice and forfeits part of the deposit

Deposit and Payment

• Deposit (Yajin) -- usually two months' rent. Some landlords request three
• First payment -- typically first month's rent plus deposit
• Payment method -- WeChat Pay, Alipay, or bank transfer. Cash is increasingly rare
• Receipts (Fapiao) -- request official receipts. Some landlords can provide tax fapiao which may be useful for tax deductions or employer reimbursement

Move-In Checklist

• Inspect the apartment before signing. Check for leaks, broken appliances, pest issues
• Photograph everything -- document existing damage to protect your deposit
• Test all appliances -- air conditioning, water heater, stove, washing machine
• Check internet availability -- some older buildings have limited broadband options
• Furnishing status -- many Chinese apartments are rented empty (maopei). Furnished (jingzhuang) costs more but saves hassle

Police Registration (Paichusuo)

• Your passport
• A copy of your rental contract
• Your landlord's ID or contact information
• A passport-sized photo (some stations require this)

Common Pitfalls

• Deposit disputes -- landlords may deduct for "cleaning" or "repairs." Document the apartment's condition at move-in and move-out
• Hidden fees -- some agents charge extra "service fees." Clarify all costs upfront
• Unlicensed agents -- use established agencies like Lianjia or verify agent credentials
• Subletting scams -- never pay rent to someone who is not the verified leaseholder
• Rent increases -- negotiate renewal terms before your lease expires

Furnishing Your Apartment

• IKEA -- stores in most major cities with delivery
• Taobao/JD -- furniture delivered and sometimes assembled
• Second-hand markets -- WeChat groups and Xianyu (Alibaba's used goods platform)
• Local furniture markets -- wholesale prices, delivery usually included