A safer tenancy starts before the contract is signed. Verify the landlord’s authority, the actual condition of the property, recurring costs and the deposit return process. A verbal understanding is not a substitute for a detailed written agreement and handover record.
Checks before the first payment
- Match the landlord’s identity to the TAPU or verify the representative’s notarised authority.
- Test water, electricity, heating, windows, appliances and furniture, and inspect for visible damp.
- Ask for the current aidat and what it includes.
- Record meter readings and create a dated photographic inventory.
- Document the term, payment date, increase mechanism, deposit, fixtures and early-termination process.
- Use traceable payments that identify the recipient and purpose.
| Item | Timing | Check |
| Rent | monthly | date, currency and bank details |
| Deposit | at move-in | amount, custody and return conditions |
| Aidat | monthly | included services and arrears |
| Utilities | monthly | account transfer and meter readings |
| Agent | one-off | documented service and agreed fee |
| Move and minor repairs | one-off | budget and allocation |
What the agreement should cover
- Full party details and exact address.
- Term, amount, due date and payment method.
- Deposit amount and return procedure.
- Furniture and appliance inventory.
- Allocation of repairs, aidat and utilities.
- Landlord access, renewal and termination.
- A signed handover record with meter readings.
A good contract does not complicate a relationship; it answers questions before they arise at the worst possible moment.
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Rent increases
For residential renewals, Article 344 links the contractual increase ceiling to the twelve-month average consumer price index. The temporary 25% cap ended on 1 July 2024. The outcome of a specific dispute depends on the term and facts, so obtain individual legal advice where necessary.
Can a deposit be paid in cash?
Written evidence is better than no record, but Article 342 provides a banking mechanism for a monetary deposit. Confirm current practice with a Turkish lawyer.
Who pays aidat?
The agreement should allocate it clearly. Day-to-day service charges are often borne by the tenant, while major capital expenditure may belong to the owner.
Are chat messages enough?
Messages may be evidence, but they do not replace a complete signed agreement, inventory and traceable payments.
Turkish Code of Obligations No. 6098
Calculate the complete monthly cost
Compare rent together with aidat, transport, utilities and the contractual allocation of risk.
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