Kazakhstan · Transaction safety
Tenancy agreement: 8 clauses you must not sign without
Term, amount, rent-increase conditions, liability for damage, deposit, termination — what must be in a flat-tenancy agreement in Kazakhstan.
A standard tenancy agreement downloaded from the internet usually protects the landlord. These 8 clauses make it balanced — you are paying for a service and are entitled to receive it on predictable terms. If the landlord refuses, without a clear reason, to include even one of them, that is a strong signal to look for another flat.
§ 01
Money and timing
- 01Term and automatic renewal
A clear term (e.g. 12 months) and renewal conditions: automatic or with 30 days' notice. An 'open-ended' contract is legally weaker and easier for the landlord to terminate.
- 02Amount and rent-increase conditions
Fix the amount and the currency (tenge). Key clause: an increase no more than once a year and no higher than a defined percentage (usually linked to inflation). Without this, the landlord can raise the rent at any time.
- 03What is included in the rent
Specify what is included in the rent (maintenance charge, internet, heating) and what is paid separately. Without a clear formulation, unexpected and large bills appear.
§ 02
Deposit and liability
- 01Conditions for returning the deposit
A precise return deadline (e.g. 14 days after move-out) and a closed list of grounds for withholding: arrears, damage in excess of normal wear. Spell out 'normal wear and tear' in words — otherwise it will be used against you.
- 02Breakdowns — who pays
Appliance wear (e.g. a washing machine failing after 3 years' use) is the landlord's responsibility. Damage caused by the tenant is paid by the tenant. This must be in the contract, not left to 'default'.
- 03Landlord's right of access
Without prior notice, the landlord cannot enter. Minimum 24 hours' warning, during working hours. Without this clause, the inviolability of the home becomes blurred.
§ 03
Termination
- 01Notice period on move-out
30 days is standard. Less than that is a pretext for the landlord to withhold part of the deposit. If the contract says '60 days', negotiate it down to 30.
- 02Grounds for early termination by the landlord
These must be a closed list: payment delayed by more than 30 days, damage to the flat, disturbing the neighbours. An open formulation 'at the landlord's discretion' = you can be evicted at any moment.
⚠ This material is for informational purposes only and does not replace legal advice. For major transactions always work with a qualified specialist in your country.