Word of the day: předávací protokol (handover report)
A record of the flat's condition at move-in and move-out. The law does not expressly require it, but in a deposit dispute it is the key evidence.
A předávací protokol is a written record signed by the tenant and the landlord when a flat is handed over. It notes the condition of walls, floors and appliances, a list of furnishings, the number of keys and the readings of the water, electricity, gas and heat meters. Ideally with dated photos.
The Civil Code does not make the report mandatory. It does say that the tenant returns the flat in the condition in which they received it, apart from normal wear and tear (Act No. 89/2012 Coll., Section 2293(1)). The flat counts as handed back once the landlord has the keys and nothing prevents access (Act No. 89/2012 Coll., Section 2292). Without a move-in record, it is hard to prove what the flat was like at the start.
What it means for you
- At move-in, go through the flat room by room and note even small things, such as scratches or a socket that does not work.
- Write down the meter readings. The service charge statement (vyúčtování služeb) is based on them.
- At move-out, use the same form and compare it with the first one. The tenant does not pay for normal wear and tear.
- Each party keeps one signed copy.
Source: e-Sbírka: Act No. 89/2012 Coll.
