Nájemní smlouva: co musíte vědět, aby vás nezabavili

When you sign a nájemní smlouva, právní smlouva mezi nájemcem a pronajímatelem, která upravuje podmínky ubytování a platby. Also known as bytová smlouva, it is the only thing that protects you if something goes wrong — whether it’s a broken heater, unexpected rent increase, or a landlord who won’t return your deposit. Without it, you’re just trusting someone’s word. And in Czech Republic, that’s not enough.

Most people think a nájemní smlouva is just a piece of paper you sign and forget. But it’s actually your legal shield. A proper one must include the full names of both parties, exact address of the apartment, monthly rent amount, payment deadline, deposit amount, duration of the lease, and rules about repairs and modifications. If any of these are missing, the contract might not hold up in court. And yes — even if your landlord is your friend, or your aunt, or your ex-colleague, you still need it. Verbal agreements don’t count. Not in practice, not in law.

Many renters get trapped because they don’t know their rights. For example, a landlord can’t just raise the rent every year — it has to be agreed in writing and can’t exceed inflation plus reasonable costs. If you pay a deposit, it must be returned within 30 days after you move out, unless there’s documented damage. And if the apartment has mold, broken windows, or no heating, you’re not obligated to pay full rent until it’s fixed. These aren’t opinions — they’re written in the občanský zákoník. The same law that says a pronajímatel must provide habitable conditions also says you can’t be kicked out without a court order — even if you’re one day late on rent.

And don’t let anyone tell you that a "standard form" from the real estate agency is enough. Those are often biased. Always read every line. If something feels off — like a clause that says you must repaint the walls when you leave, or pay for normal wear and tear — say no. You can always ask for changes. Most landlords will agree if you’re polite and reasonable.

Don’t wait until you’re already in trouble to check your contract. Review it before you move in. Take photos of every scratch, every damp spot, every broken tile. Keep copies of every payment receipt. If you ever need to prove you paid rent or reported a problem, paper trails are your best friends.

This page collects real-life guides and case studies from people who’ve been there — from how to negotiate a better rent to what to do when your landlord disappears. You’ll find clear steps on how to write your own contract, how to handle disputes, and how to get your deposit back without hiring a lawyer. No fluff. No legal jargon. Just what actually works in Czechia today.