Finding housing in China
Main platforms (Chinese-language; help from a friend or agent helps):
- Lianjia (链家), Ziroom (自如): Professional agencies (verified listings)
- 58.com, Anjuke: General portals
- Local agents (中介): Common; watch for scams
- WeChat groups: Expat communities
Housing types
- Apartment complexes (小区): Modern residential blocks
- Service apartments: Furnished with services; pricier
- Older blocks (老小区): Older buildings, lower rent
- Shared flats (合租): Rooms in shared apartments
China uses the hukou household registration system. Foreigners are not on hukou, but your lease is often needed for police registration.
Contracts and payments
Common practice:
- Payment: Often “3+1” (three months’ rent upfront + one month deposit) or “6+1”
- Deposit: 1–2 months’ rent
- Agency fee: Often 50–100% of one month’s rent (sometimes paid by the landlord)
- Term: Usually at least 6–12 months
Documents you may need
- Passport with valid visa
- Work or residence permit
- Employer letter (if requested)
- Deposit by cash or transfer
Registering the tenancy
After signing, the landlord should:
- Register the contract with the local authority
- Give you a rental receipt for police registration
Utilities and services
Often arranged by the landlord or compound:
- Electricity, water, gas: Included in rent or billed separately
- Internet: China Telecom, China Mobile, China Unicom
- Heating / cooling: Central or individual
- Management fee (物业费): Monthly building charge
Go deeper
Operational detail and official links—amounts and deadlines change; always confirm on the competent portal before filing or paying.
Lease types (summary)
| Item | Note |
|---|---|
| Written lease | Rent, deposit (押金), dates, heating/AC, and repair duties—ask for stamped receipts |
| Address compliance | Keep landlord details aligned with PSB registration and campus housing rules |
| Sublets & agents | Avoid informal sublets; verify ownership/agency credentials |
| Building fees | Clarify management fees, utilities, and who pays repairs |
Market practice
Finding a flat
Local listing apps and agencies are common—compare service fees and inspect the unit in person.
Deposit & notice
Put notice periods and deposit return terms in writing; archive payment proofs.
Utilities
Power & water
Prepaid meter top-ups or monthly bills via landlord/municipal apps are typical patterns.
Broadband
Installation lead times vary; confirm who holds the contract.
Disputes
Local mediation and consumer channels—keep dated evidence.
This block complements the guide with institutional entry points—not legal or tax advice.