Taxes - The landlord should be responsible for any business tax and property tax related to leasing the property.

Insurance -The landlord should be responsible for the premises and provisions and the tenant insure their own belongings.

Legal ownership -Ensure the landlord is the legal owner of the leased property and has all the necessary papers to prove it.

Sale of property - Ensure that your lease remains valid if the property is sold.

Renovations - If the property needs renovations, ensure they are listed and added to the contract to ensure they are done by the time you move in. Instruct your agent to write a time frame of all renovations and follow up on its progress with updates. Visit the property a few times to check on quality etc. (don鈥檛 worry if it looks like a 鈥渨ar zone鈥? If you are concerned about delays, add a clause that wither rent won鈥檛 be charged and/or alternative accommodation will be provided if renovations aren鈥檛 completed on time.

Expiration of contract - On expiration of the contract, after all bills and/or damages are paid, the deposit should be refunded in its original currency within one week. If you are concerned that your deposit is earning interest, ask for a copy of the account鈥檚 bank statement.

Attachments - Ensure that any attachments are referred to in the contract, are an inseparable part of it and are equally enforceable.

Disputes - It is recommended that you negotiate to resolve any disputes that arise and get your agent involved as early as possible. There is not a highly developed legal system for disputes in China.   

Language - Contracts are written in both Chinese and English languages with the Chinese version generally having the legal power in the event of disputes.