How to Avoid Problem Tenants in Estonia (2025 Guide)

Choosing the right tenant is one of the most important steps for landlords in Estonia. A single problematic tenant can cause financial loss, delays, property damage or legal disputes. This guide explains how to screen tenants effectively in 2025 and protect your rental investment.

1. Start with a detailed online application

Ask every potential tenant to fill out an application form with:

• full name + personal code
• employment details
• monthly income
• reason for moving
• current landlord’s contacts

This filters unserious applicants immediately.

2. Verify employment & income

Ask for:

• employment contract
• salary slip (payslip)
• bank statement (optional)

3. Ask for references from previous landlords

Call the previous landlord and ask:

• Were they reliable with payments?
• Any noise complaints?
• Any damage to the apartment?
• Would you rent to them again?

References reveal more than any documents.

4. Conduct a short interview

Useful questions:

• How long do you plan to stay?
• Do you work from home?
• Any pets?
• How many people will live in the apartment?

5. Look for red flags

• avoids questions
• pushes for a discount immediately
• does not want to pay deposit
• no references
• stories of problems with "previous landlords"

6. Use a strong rental contract

A contract must include:

• rent & dates
• deposit rules
• house rules
• pet rules
• termination conditions

7. Always take a full deposit

Estonian law allows:

• deposit up to 3 months

Never accept “half deposit” or “deposit later”.

8. Create a detailed condition report

Include:

• photos of all rooms
• meter readings
• list of appliances + condition

9. Trust your instinct

If something feels wrong — it usually is.

10. Use RNB.ee to find reliable tenants

• verified user profiles
• professional listing templates
• visibility boost options

Find serious tenants faster — publish your rental offer on RNB.ee.