What to Do After Signing a Lease Agreement? A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

What to Do After Signing a Lease Agreement? A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Signing a lease agreement is an important moment — it marks the official start of the process of handing over the apartment and defining the responsibilities between the landlord and the tenant. In practice, however, many people are unsure what exactly should happen after the documents are signed. This guide walks you through all the key steps to ensure the process goes smoothly, without misunderstandings or errors.

1. Confirming the Agreement and Initial Payments
After signing the lease, both parties should receive:

• confirmation of the agreement,
• information about payment amounts and deadlines,
• the bank account number for payments.

The tenant should immediately know:

• the amount of the security deposit,
• when and how much the first rent payment is,
• any additional required fees (utilities, advance payments, administrative fees).

The apartment should not be handed over until the initial payments are processed.

2. Collecting the Security Deposit and First Rent
Before moving in, the landlord expects:

• the security deposit,
• the first rent payment, if the lease specifies it.

This protects both parties and helps avoid misunderstandings at the start.

3. Scheduling the Apartment Handover
Once the financial matters are settled, schedule:

• the date,
• the time,
• the form of handover (meeting, planned key collection, sometimes self-check-in).

It’s important to ensure the apartment is prepared in advance:

• cleaned,
• technically functional,
• ready for use.

4. Preparing the Handover Protocol
This is one of the most important documents in the rental process. It protects both the landlord and the tenant — especially during move-out and deposit settlement.

The protocol should include:

• the technical condition of the apartment,
• description of the equipment,
• a list of keys and remotes,
• meter readings (electricity, water, gas, heating),
• photos documenting the condition of each room,
• a list of any defects.

It’s recommended to prepare two copies and have both parties sign them.

5. Handing Over Keys or Access Codes
During the handover, the tenant receives:

• a complete set of keys to the apartment and common areas,
• remotes/cards (if required by the building),
• instructions for using appliances,
• information on building or community rules.

This is also a good time to provide:

• waste sorting instructions,
• parking rules,
• how to contact building management or maintenance.

6. Transferring Meters and Utilities
Depending on the lease, two models may apply:

Model A – Tenant Transfers Utilities to Their Name
(typical in long-term rentals)
The tenant contacts utility providers and sets up accounts for:

• electricity,
• gas,
• internet,
• TV.

Model B – Utilities Managed by the Landlord
(typical in room rentals or subleases)
The tenant pays advance fees, and the landlord later reconciles them based on meter readings or estimates.

In both cases, it is essential to:

• record meter readings on the day of handover,
• keep documentation for the future.

7. Registration — Is It Required?
The tenant has the right to request temporary registration. The landlord cannot refuse, as long as the tenant actually lives in the apartment.

For registration, usually the following is sufficient:

• lease agreement,
• proof of the landlord’s legal title (e.g., deed) — often not required,
• apartment details.

It’s good to clarify this in advance to avoid delays.

8. Setting Communication and Reporting Rules
To avoid chaos, it’s important to clearly define:

• where to report issues or breakdowns,
• the hours when the landlord/property manager can be contacted,
• how repairs are handled,
• how and when payments are made,
• when periodic apartment inspections take place (if applicable).

The tenant should know exactly where to find all necessary information.

9. Setting Payment Reminders
Good practices:

• set up a standing order,
• note the rent due date (usually by the 10th of the month),
• set reminders on your phone,
• agree on the format for payment confirmation (e.g., no need to send confirmation if the transfer is automatic).

Regular payments are the foundation of smooth cooperation.

10. Keeping and Organizing Documents
It’s worth creating a single place where the tenant keeps:

• the lease agreement,
• the handover protocol,
• confirmations of initial payments,
• contacts for the landlord and management,
• building rules.

Easy access to documents saves time and helps avoid disputes.

Checklists – Quick Summary

Landlord/Property Manager Checklist:

• Lease signed by both parties
• Security deposit received
• First rent received
• Handover date scheduled
• Handover protocol prepared
• Apartment photos taken
• Keys and instructions handed over
• Meter readings recorded
• Communication rules set
• Rules/regulations provided

Tenant Checklist:

• Security deposit paid
• First rent paid
• Protocol signed
• Keys received
• Meter readings recorded
• Utilities transferred (if applicable)
• Standing order set
• Familiarized with building rules

Summary
After signing a lease, several important steps remain — from initial payments, through the protocol, to handing over keys and communication rules. A well-handled process gives both parties a sense of security and lays a solid foundation for a smooth rental experience.

‍