How to formalize a rental contract: Necessary documents and expenses

Formalizing a rental contract is a process that requires certain documents to verify the tenant's solvency and avoid future problems. In this article, we will explain what documents are necessary and what expenses you should consider before entering a rental apartment.

Documents required to rent a property

When you are looking to rent a property, landlords will generally request the following documentation to evaluate your financial profile and ensure that you can meet the rent payment:

Identity document: You must provide a copy of your identity document, either DNI for Spanish citizens or residence card / passport for foreigners, to verify your identity.

2. Employment contract: It is necessary to present your employment contract so that the owner knows what type of employee you are, whether salaried, self-employed, civil servant, among others.

3. Last three paychecks: The landlord or agency will want to verify your regular income to make sure you can afford the rent.

Other documents that may be requested when renting an apartment

In addition to the documentation mentioned above, some landlords may require other documents to certify the tenant's solvency and responsibility:

1. Work History Report: This document shows your work history and income stability, which can be an important factor for the landlord.

2. Income tax return: Some landlords may request the latest tax return as additional proof of your income.

3. References from previous landlords: Providing references from previous landlords can demonstrate that you have been a responsible tenant in the past.

4. Bank guarantee: In certain cases where you cannot demonstrate a stable income, the landlord may ask for a bank guarantee to guarantee the payment of the rent in case you cannot pay it.

5. Non-defaulting tenant certificate: Obtaining this certificate will make you stand out as a reliable candidate by proving that you are not listed as a debtor in any database.

6. Tenant guarantee: Consider a guarantee policy such as the one offered by idealista to assure the landlord that you will always be able to pay the rent.

Expenses to consider before entering a rental apartment

Before moving into a rental apartment, you should consider the following expenses:

Rental deposit: Generally corresponds to one month's rent and is returned at the end of the contract if there is no damage to the property.

2. The current month: You must pay the rent for the month in which you move.

3. Additional guarantee: According to the Urban Leases Law (LAU), an additional guarantee may be required, which must not exceed two months' rent.

What to ask the landlord to rent an apartment

When applying to rent an apartment, be sure to obtain the following documents from the landlord:

Title deed: This certifies that the property belongs to the lessor and can be accredited by means of the title deed, deeds or IBI receipt.

2. Certificate of habitability: It is important that the house has this document, which proves that it meets the conditions to be inhabited.

3. Energy certificate: It is mandatory and provides information on the energy consumption of the property.

4. Supply and IBI invoices: These invoices are necessary to verify that the supplies are active and the IBI payments are up to date.

Responsibility for lease expenses

Generally, the costs of formalizing the contract, such as lawyers', notaries' or other professional fees, are borne by the owner.

Remember that complying with all the requirements and submitting the proper documentation will help you have a successful rental application and demonstrate your creditworthiness as a responsible tenant.