When you plan to rent a flat, please consider the following items:

• Budget: Is the monthly rent affordable?

• Preferred location: Is it close to the campus? Is it convenient?

• Safety: Is it too quiet at night without streetlight? What kind of shops near the flat?

• Transportation: Is it easy to find a public transportation to go to the campus and get around? Is the fee affordable?

• Furniture: What kind of furniture or electric appliances are provided? Are they in good conditions and functional?

• Rental period: How long do you have to rent? (It is better to discuss it in detail with the Agent before signing any contract.)

• Size of the flat: How big is the flat do you prefer? And, is it affordable?

• Search the contacts or websites of Property Agencies
• Verify the licences of the agencies from the Licence List
• Before deciding an agent, please read the information from Estate Agents Authority (地產代理監管局)

If you would like to rent a flat from private housing, it is better for you to estimate the rent in the vicinity of HSUHK campus.

1. Before visiting, a tenant has to sign a document called “Estate Agency Agreement for Leasing of Residential Properties in Hong Kong” which is about the responsibility between tenant and agent.
2. Verify the identity of the landlord and the property status (Subletting of Public rental housing and housing under Home Ownership Scheme is not allowed)
3. View the apartment with a friend or a relative.
4. Examine the apartment’s layout, view, renovation, public facilities, fire prevention facilities, etc.
5. Inspect the apartment during day time and night time
6. Observe the furniture, front door, windows, water leakage, bathroom, living room, bedroom and kitchen, etc.

When you have decided an apartment or a flat, you are strongly advised to read the “A Guide to Tenancy” (安心租屋指南)published jointly by the Estate Agents Authority and Consumer Council.