What to Check Before Signing a Rental Contract in Estonia (2025 Guide)

18.11.2025 • Rent property
What to Check Before Signing a Rental Contract in Estonia (2025 Guide)

What to Check Before Signing a Rental Contract in Estonia (2025 Guide)

Signing a rental contract is an important legal step. Many problems in Estonia arise because tenants do not check the agreement carefully. This 2025 guide explains everything you must verify before signing — based on Estonian rental law and practical advice from RNB.ee.

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1. Verify the landlord’s identity

  • ask for ID (photo can be blurred)
  • ask for proof of ownership if unsure
  • avoid signing with someone who refuses identification
Real landlords in Estonia are used to ID verification — it is normal.

2. Check the rental duration

  • fixed-term (6–24 months)
  • open-ended (can be terminated with notice)

Fixed-term contracts usually offer more stability for tenants.

3. Understand the notice period

In Estonia the standard notice period is:

  • 1 month for tenants
  • 3 months for landlords

This must be written clearly in the contract.

4. Clarify rent amount & payment terms

Check:

  • monthly rent amount
  • payment date
  • late payment rules
  • bank account for payment

5. Deposit rules (maximum allowed)

Estonian law allows deposit up to 3 months' rent.

Confirm:

  • deposit amount
  • conditions for returning it
  • what is considered damage

6. Check all utility payments

You must know exactly who pays for:

  • heating
  • water
  • electricity
  • internet
  • apartment association fees
  • parking
Many tenants underestimate winter heating costs — always ask for previous bills.

7. Read the rules of the house (Ühistu)

Common rules include:

  • noise restrictions
  • pet rules
  • parking rules

8. Clarify the condition of the apartment

Before signing, check:

  • moisture in the bathroom
  • ventilation performance
  • window sealing
  • working appliances

9. Create or request a condition report

It must include:

  • high-resolution photos
  • list of furniture and appliances
  • meter readings

10. Check termination and penalty clauses

Make sure there are no unusual or unfair penalties.

11. Confirm digital signing options

In Estonia contracts can be signed digitally:

  • ID-card
  • Smart-ID
  • Mobile-ID

12. Only sign after viewing the apartment in person

Never sign a contract for a property you have not physically seen.

Final advice

Take your time — a rental contract should never be rushed. And always ask questions when unsure.

Looking for safe, verified rentals? Find your home on RNB.ee.