Tenancy or lease renewal in Russia
Renewing a tenancy or lease agreement in Russia typically involves reviewing the existing contract terms, negotiating new terms if necessary, and formalizing the renewal through an additional agreement or a new contract. The process is primarily a negotiation between the landlord and the tenant.
It is generally advisable for both landlords and tenants to initiate discussions about renewing a tenancy or lease agreement at least 1-2 months before the current contract's expiration date. This allows sufficient time for negotiation, agreement on new terms (such as rent or duration), and preparation of the necessary documentation, preventing a lapse in the agreement or unexpected move-out requirements.
Start 30 days ahead
This timeframe allows for discussion, negotiation, and formalization of the renewal agreement before the existing contract expires, accommodating potential disagreements or scheduling issues.
The process
- 1Review the existing tenancy or lease agreement to understand its current terms and any clauses related to renewal or termination.
- 2Initiate communication with the other party (landlord or tenant) to express intent to renew the agreement.
- 3Negotiate new terms and conditions, if any, such as rent adjustments, duration of the new term, or maintenance responsibilities.
- 4Draft an additional agreement (дополнительное соглашение) to the existing contract, or a completely new lease agreement, reflecting the agreed-upon terms.
- 5Both parties should carefully read and sign the new or additional agreement.
- 6If the initial lease was registered with Rosreestr (e.g., for commercial properties or residential leases over one year), the renewed agreement or additional agreement extending the term may also require registration.
What to bring
- Original tenancy or lease agreement
- Identification documents of both parties (passports for individuals, corporate registration documents for legal entities)
- Documents confirming ownership of the property (for the landlord)
- Additional agreement or new lease contract draft
Who handles it
Landlord and Tenant (Гражданский кодекс Российской Федерации - Civil Code of the Russian Federation)
The primary costs associated with renewing a tenancy or lease agreement are typically administrative or potentially legal fees if professional assistance is sought for drafting or review. If registration with Rosreestr is required for the renewed agreement (e.g., for leases longer than one year for residential property, or for commercial property), a state duty (государственная пошлина) will be payable. The specific amount of this duty can vary and should be confirmed with Rosreestr or a legal professional.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure all new terms, particularly rent and duration, are clearly defined and mutually agreed upon in writing.
- Be aware of clauses in the original contract regarding automatic renewal or notice periods for non-renewal.
- For leases that were originally registered (e.g., residential leases over one year, or commercial leases), confirm if the renewal also requires registration with Rosreestr, as failure to register can affect its legal enforceability against third parties.
- Retain signed copies of both the original and the renewed or additional agreement for future reference.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Russia
Tenancy or lease renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
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