Estonian Rental Laws 2025: Full Guide for Landlords

The Estonian rental market remains strong in 2025, especially in Tallinn, Tartu and Pärnu. Whether you rent out a single apartment or manage several units, understanding rental law is essential. This guide explains deposits, contract rules, tenant rights, eviction procedures and common risks — all based on real Estonian legislation and market practice.

1. Types of rental contracts in Estonia

Estonia recognizes two primary forms of rental agreements:

Tip: Always register the tenant’s official place of residence only after rent is paid and the contract officially starts.

2. Deposits (security payments) in 2025

Estonian law allows landlords to request a security deposit of up to:

• 3 months’ rent maximum — legal limit
• 1 month is standard in Tallinn and Tartu
• 2–3 months for high-end or furnished apartments

The deposit must be placed in a separate account and returned within a “reasonable time” after the tenant moves out.

3. What must be written in the rental contract

To avoid disputes, include:

• correct identification of both parties
• exact address + apartment number
• amount of rent + payment date
• who pays utilities (important!)
• rules for pets, smoking, subletting
• deposit amount and return rules
• inventory of furniture and appliances
• condition photos attached to the contract

4. Tenant rights landlords must respect

Under Estonian law, tenants have several protected rights:

• privacy — landlord cannot enter without agreement
• fair utility billing
• reasonable notice before termination
• right to challenge unlawful increases of rent

Rent increases must follow legal limits and require written notice.

5. When can a landlord legally terminate a contract?

Termination must follow legal procedure. Common grounds include:

• non-payment of rent
• property damage
• illegal activity
• serious violation of contract rules

How long notice must be given?

• Usually 3 months for indefinite-term contracts
• Less if the tenant violates obligations severely

Important: Illegal eviction (“self-help”) is prohibited — no lock changes, no forced entry. Always follow documented legal steps.

6. Rental taxation in Estonia

Rental income must be declared in Estonia. Many landlords choose:

• standard 20% income tax
• or registering as a business for deductible expenses

Expenses like maintenance, renovation or interest may be deductible depending on structure.

7. How to protect yourself as a landlord

• run background checks
• request proof of employment
• use a professional lease template
• document condition with photos and video
• never hand over keys before deposit is paid

Most successful landlords in Tallinn now use detailed condition reports + high-quality photos to reduce disputes.

8. How RNB.ee helps landlords in Estonia

• your listing reaches thousands of tenants daily
• filters for “new”, “renovated”, “pet friendly” increase visibility
• map view helps tenants find your area quickly
• SEO-optimized listing pages increase exposure

Ready to rent out your property? Publish your listing on RNB.ee and reach verified tenants across Estonia.