Tenancy or lease renewal in Moldova
Renewing a tenancy or lease agreement in Moldova typically involves mutual agreement between the landlord and tenant. The process may range from a simple written extension to drafting a new contract, depending on the parties' preferences and the original agreement's terms.
It is generally advisable for parties to begin discussions about renewal several weeks or months before the current lease agreement is set to expire. This allows sufficient time for negotiation of new terms, adjustments to rent, and any necessary legal or administrative steps, such as notarization if required for the original agreement or new terms.
Start 60 days ahead
This lead time allows for negotiations, agreement on new terms, and any administrative procedures like drafting a new contract or notarization, without pressure from an impending expiration date.
The process
- 1Review the existing tenancy or lease agreement to understand its renewal clauses, notice periods, and expiration date.
- 2Initiate communication with the other party (landlord or tenant) to express interest in renewal.
- 3Negotiate and agree upon new terms, including rent, duration, and any modifications to the original conditions.
- 4Draft an addendum to the existing contract or a new tenancy agreement reflecting the agreed-upon terms.
- 5Both parties sign the renewed or new agreement.
- 6If the original agreement was notarized, or if new terms necessitate it, consider having the renewed agreement or addendum notarized by a public notary.
What to bring
- Original tenancy or lease agreement
- Identification documents of both parties (e.g., passport, national ID card)
Who handles it
No specific government authority is solely responsible for tenancy agreement renewals, as these are private contractual matters. However, if notarization is desired or required, a public notary (Notarul public) would be involved.
The primary costs associated with renewing a lease are typically the fees for notarization, if the parties choose or are required to have the agreement notarized. Notary fees in Moldova are set by law and depend on the value of the transaction (e.g., the total rent for the renewed period), but specific current fees should be confirmed directly with a public notary.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all new terms are clearly documented in writing, whether in an addendum or a new contract.
- Check if the original agreement contains specific clauses regarding renewal procedures or notice periods that must be followed.
- Confirm whether notarization is legally required for the type of property or duration of the lease, or if the parties simply prefer it for added legal weight.
- Be aware that verbal agreements, while potentially valid, can be more difficult to prove in case of dispute.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
- Notariat Public Moldova - Servicii Notariale notariatpublic.md
Other documents in Moldova
Tenancy or lease renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
Don't rely on remembering
Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.