Renting an Apartment in China
Find legit rentals, understand contracts, avoid scams, and handle police registration.
Quick Summary
Best platforms: Ziroom (apartments), Lianjia (agents), Facebook groups (shared)
Typical costs: 1-3 months deposit + 1 month agent fee (if using agent)
Must check: Landlord must provide documents for police registration
Contracts: Always get written contract, never just verbal agreement
Where to Find Apartments
🏢 Ziroom (自如)
Managed apartments, reliable service
- ✓ English app available
- ✓ Professional management
- ✓ Includes cleaning service
- • 10-15% premium price
🏠 Lianjia (链家)
Largest agency network
- ✓ Professional agents
- ✓ Large inventory
- ✓ Contract support
- • 1 month rent as agent fee
👥 Facebook/WeChat
Expat community groups
- ✓ Direct with landlords
- ✓ No agent fees
- ✓ Roommate options
- • Need Chinese skills
⚠️ Avoid These Platforms
- • 58.com / Ganji — Too many scams, fake listings
- • Unlicensed agents on street corners — No protection
- • Unofficial sublets without landlord knowledge — Police registration impossible
🚫 Rental Scam Red Flags
Before Signing: Essential Checks
1. Landlord's Documents
Request to see: Property ownership certificate (房产证), Landlord's ID card. You need these for police registration. If landlord refuses, find another place.
2. Police Registration Support
Confirm landlord will help with police registration (住宿登记). This is legally required within 24 hours. Ask: "可以帮我做外国人住宿登记吗？"
3. Contract Review
Get contract in Chinese (and English translation if possible). Key terms: Rent amount, deposit terms, contract length, early termination clause, maintenance responsibilities.
4. Inspect the Property
Check: Water pressure, hot water, AC/heating, WiFi speed, noise levels, nearby construction, neighbors. Take photos of any existing damage.
Typical Rental Costs
| Cost | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Rent | ¥3,000-15,000+ | Varies by city, location, size |
| Security Deposit | 1-3 months rent | Usually 2 months in major cities |
| Agent Fee | 0.5-1 month rent | Sometimes negotiable |
| Utilities Deposit | ¥500-1000 | Optional, some landlords require |
| Key/Access Card | ¥50-200 | One-time, refundable |
| First Month Rent | 1 month | Due at move-in |
Example (Shanghai, ¥6,000/month apartment):
Move-in costs: ¥12,000 (2-month deposit) + ¥6,000 (agent fee) + ¥6,000 (first month) = ¥24,000 total
People Also Ask
Can I rent in China on a tourist visa?
Yes but with complications. Short-term rentals (Airbnb) are fine. For long-term leases, landlords may hesitate. You'll need police registration which requires landlord cooperation. Some landlords prefer tenants with residence permits.
How do I pay rent?
Bank transfer preferred. Landlords usually want rent via WeChat Pay, Alipay, or bank transfer. Cash is suspicious. Always get a receipt (收据) for each payment. Never pay rent to "agents" — pay landlord directly.
Can I get my deposit back?
Sometimes difficult. Chinese landlords are notorious for keeping deposits for minor issues. Document everything at move-in. Take photos/video. Get written agreement on deposit return conditions. Small claims court exists but is hard for foreigners.
What if I need to break the lease early?
Negotiate. Standard contracts require you to find a replacement tenant or forfeit deposit. Some allow early termination with 1-2 months notice. Read your contract carefully before signing. Get any agreement in writing.
Should I use an agent or find directly?
Agents for long-term, direct for short-term. Agents (Lianjia) provide security and contract support for long-term rentals. For short stays (under 6 months), Facebook groups or Ziroom are better — no agent fees.
Related Guides
⚠️ Notice
Rental prices vary dramatically by city, district, season, and market conditions. Costs shown are approximate ranges only. Actual prices in Tier 1 cities (Beijing/Shanghai/Shenzhen) may be significantly higher. Deposit requirements and agent fees differ by location and landlord. Housing regulations and tenant rights may vary by city. Please Verify before use.
Check: Local real estate apps Ziroom/Lianjia for current listings; Visit: Facebook expat groups for your target city
Last updated: April 2026