Reviewing rental agreements

Israeli rental contracts are usually written in Hebrew. Understanding yours before you sign is essential. WHAT TO LOOK FOR • Names of landlord and tenant, with ID numbers • Rental period and monthly rent • When and how rent is paid • The deposit and guarantees • Who pays utilities and arnona • What is included (furniture, appliances) • Repair responsibilities • Early termination and renewal terms • Rules on subletting and guests STEPS • Ask for a copy ahead of time. • Get it translated or reviewed by someone who reads Hebrew, ideally a lawyer or an experienced friend. • Walk through the apartment and note existing damage, ideally with photos. • Keep a signed copy. GOOD TO KNOW Israel has a law on fair rental that sets some tenant protections, such as limits on deposits and rules about repairs. Ask a knowledgeable person which rules apply to you. WATCH OUT FOR Do not sign something you do not understand. A few hours of review can save you from months of trouble.