100 Must-Know Tips for Renting in Hong Kong (Part 1)

Moving and renting in Hong Kong, how can you avoid pitfalls and find your ideal home? To make it easier for everyone to rent their dream house in Hong Kong, we've compiled 100 rental tips, covering everything from house viewing, signing contracts, to daily life. Let this 100 tip rental bible help you avoid common mistakes and start your new life in Hong Kong smoothly! Useful tools are also provided at the end, be sure to bookmark it!

1. Budget and Location

• 1.Determine your budget and area, then search for buildings or rooms.
• 2.Be clear which locations you want. Consider transport convenience, amenities etc. For example, nearby shopping malls, restaurants, clinics, public transport.
• 3.Pay attention to the surrounding environment and community safety. If possible, bring a friend along; they might notice more details.

2. Building Condition

• 4.Check building management, security, cleaning services.
• 5.Note the location of the air conditioner installation and if it produces significant noise.
• 6.Observe the building's maintenance, such as any external wall damages or frequent elevator repairs.
• 7.Check for noise in the building, like renovation sounds.

3. Flat Condition

• 8.Be sure to view all rooms, not just the living room.
• 9.Test switches, lights, water flow, air conditioning, and other appliances to see if they work properly.
• 10.Look for signs of water leakage on the ceiling to avoid future leaks.
• 11.Check the floor and walls for wear and tear, and if the decoration seems to be deteriorating.
• 12.Examine the bathroom and kitchen for obvious leaks or mold.
• 13.Open windows to check for any unusual smells inside the room.
• 14.Measure the area with a tape measure to see if it matches the actual size.

4. Lease Terms

• 15.Always read the lease terms in detail. If you have any doubts, clarify with the agent or landlord.
• 16.Note the rent payment method, frequency, and duration. Verbal promises with the landlord are not valid; they must be written in the lease.
• 17.Clarify who is responsible for collecting the rent and whether utility fees are included in the rent.
• 18.Common Hong Kong leases are two years. The first year is "fixed", neither landlord nor tenant can terminate without losing the deposit. The second year is "flexible", either party can terminate with notice.
• 19.Seek legal advice before signing to ensure there are no hidden terms.

5. Take Possession

• 20.Once the lease is signed, confirm the exact move-in date.
• 21.Inspect all facilities in the house and report any issues to the landlord immediately.
• 22.Record utility meter numbers to avoid disputes later.
• 23.Confirm internet installation requirements.
• 24.Take a photo of the flat condition for future reference.
• 25.Confirm the number of keys the landlord can provide, remember they cannot enter the flat without tenant consent.

6. Moving Tips

• 26.Arrange movers in advance, avoid last minute rush.
• 27.Block lifts on moving day to avoid inconveniencing others.
• 28.Immediately clear rubbish after moving to avoid blocking corridors.
• 29.Be careful not to damage common areas when moving in.
• 30.Update new address immediately for all mail and records.

7. Living Tips

• 31.Note key estate contacts like management office, security etc for emergencies.
• 32.No pets allowed unless landlord and building approval is obtained.
• 33.Cannot modify flat structure or renovate without landlord and building consent.
• 34.Use appliances within power safety limits of the flat.
• 35.Contact the landlord immediately for any leaks, do not attempt repairs yourself.
• 36.Clean range hood and air conditioner filters regularly to keep air fresh.
• 37.Inform the landlord of any issues like paint peeling as soon as noticed.

8. Moving Out

• 38.Remove all tenant installed furniture and appliances.
• 39.Return all keys, ensure the correct number.
• 40.Notify the landlord and building management 1 month before moving out.
• 41.Clean the flat thoroughly before leaving, especially the kitchen and toilet.
• 42.Handover keys and access cards punctually to the landlord or agent on moving day.
• 43.Check for any damage requiring compensation before leaving.
• 44.Re-check utility meters with the landlord, and settle outstanding utilities.
• 45.Watch for any personal items left behind in the flat.

9. Maintenance Requests

• 46.Inform the landlord immediately about any repair issues.
• 47.Follow up repair status regularly, do not just inform once.
• 48.If an issue persists after a repair, notify the landlord promptly.
• 49.For urgent repairs, call the landlord immediately.
• 50.After repairs, ensure the issue has been fully resolved; if not, continue to follow up.

Given the article's considerable length, it's split into two parts. The second part covers topics like cost-saving tips for renters, navigating relationships with landlords and roommates, key legal insights for renting, and must-have websites and tools for life in Hong Kong. It's a must-save for those new to renting!