Standard Leasing Practises
Properties are leased out from individual landlords, investment firms or developers. Properties owned by individual landlords are generally more flexible on rental and terms, but these strata-title complexes often may not ensure high quality services (such as dealing with maintenance issues, return of deposit, etc), while, properties owned by developers and investment firms generally provide better quality services with quicker response times.
Below is additional information regarding standard leasing practices:
Lease Term
The standard lease term is 12 months fixed. For shorter term contracts, it is often preferred to choose serviced apartments. Most individual landlords would not accept a contract shorter than 12 months.
Deposit
A two month deposit is a standard practice, and this will cover damages and utilities (which will need to be paid in full before any of the deposit can be returned). Other ways that landlords can accept deposits for corporate accounts is in the form of a company guarantee letter/bank guarantee or deposit offset (the last two months lease rental can offset the deposit). Your agent will work out the best way for your deposit arrangement, in order to reduce potential risk of late/non-retrieval penalties.
Lease Agreement
The municipality of Shanghai has a standard lease agreement, but it does little to protect the tenant. For individual landlords, having a standard contract ready is preferred. Many developments and some Corporate HR (Human Resources) Departments have their own standard contract. So, please consult with your company regarding their preferences.
Preparing For Your Move
The vast majority of both apartments and villas will be fully furnished, including all appliances, window treatments, furniture, and floor coverings. Aside from being fully furnished and fitted out, most serviced apartments (and some serviced villas) have limited alterations and flexibility. Although non-serviced apartments and villas may offer more flexibility on furnishings, there will be a scarce selection of additional services.
In regards to furnishings, it is possible to ship furniture from home country, however most expatriates who come here for a relatively short term (2-3yr.) do not choose this option. Upon arrival, should some furniture be needed, good quality furnishings are available for purchase in Shanghai, from IKEA as well as markets/stores with various styles, quality levels and price ranges of furniture **. Another option is buying Chinese “antiques” competently restored by talented Chinese craftsmen. These craftsmen can also replicate almost any design from photograph. Custom built mattresses and sofas of good quality are also available, at very reasonable prices compared to most other countries.
High quality international brand appliances can also be purchased easily in Shanghai. Again, it is not necessary to bring appliances from home country; especially as the voltage and adaptor size may be different compared to what is used in China. If you use any USA 110V items, a transformer (not a converter) will be needed, and can be purchased upon arrival. It is preferred to buy large transformers as smaller ones cannot accommodate the voltage load and often destroy appliances.