Finding a Rental in Lithuania

Where to look for a rental

Most people in Lithuania find rentals through online listing platforms. The most widely used ones are Aruodas.lt and Domoplius.lt. You can also search through local Facebook community groups, which are especially active in Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda. Real estate agencies (nekilnojamojo turto agentūros) can help if you need extra support, though they usually charge a fee equal to one month's rent.

If you are new to Lithuania and need temporary accommodation while you search, migrant support organisations such as IOM Lithuania or Caritas Lietuva may be able to point you toward transitional housing options.

How to avoid rental scams

Unfortunately, rental scams do exist. Here are the most important rules to protect yourself:

• Never pay before you have viewed the property in person. If someone asks for a deposit or rent before a viewing, this is a serious warning sign.
• Never transfer money before signing a written rental contract. Verbal agreements or promises via message do not protect you.
• Verify that the person renting to you is actually the owner or has the legal right to sublet. You can check property ownership through the Centre of Registers (Registrų centras) using the property address.
• Be cautious of listings where the rent is unusually low for the area, or where the landlord claims to be abroad and cannot meet in person.

What to check before agreeing

When you view a property, take time to look carefully at:

• The condition of walls, windows, plumbing, and heating
• Whether furniture and appliances are in working order
• Who pays utilities (electricity, water, heating) and how bills are handled
• The building's general condition and security

Ask the landlord to show you their identity document and proof of ownership or authorisation to rent.

Deposits and costs

In Lithuania, landlords typically ask for a security deposit (užstatas) of one to two months' rent. This should be returned to you at the end of the tenancy if you leave the property in good condition. Make sure the deposit amount and conditions for its return are written into the contract.

Insist on a written rental contract

A written contract (nuomos sutartis) is your main legal protection. It should clearly state:

• The address and description of the property
• The monthly rent amount and payment date
• The deposit amount and return conditions
• The length of the tenancy and notice period
• Who is responsible for repairs and utilities

Both you and the landlord should sign it. You may also choose to register the contract with the Centre of Registers, which gives you additional legal protections. If you are unsure about any clause in the contract, seek advice from a migrant support organisation before signing.