How to Prepare a Rental Contract: A 12-Point Checklist

Short answer: Although a rental contract may be made in any form, writing it is necessary for proof. A good contract clearly states the parties, the property, the rent, term, deposit, increases, expenses and handover conditions.

12-point checklist

1. Parties: Name, surname, Turkish ID number (passport for foreigners), address, phone.
2. Property: Address, unit number, block/parcel details.
3. Purpose of use: Residence or workplace.
4. Rent: Monthly amount, payment day, bank account (IBAN). Between residents, the rent must be in Turkish lira.
5. Term: Start and end dates, renewal condition.
6. Increase: The TBK art. 344 limit in renewed periods.
7. Deposit: Amount (at most three months' rent) and that it is held in a bank.
8. Expenses: Who pays maintenance fees, electricity, water, natural gas, internet and property tax.
9. Fixtures and handover record: Inventory list and photos.
10. Sublease and assignment: The tenant cannot give the property to a third party without permission.
11. Termination and eviction: Termination notice period, payment warning.
12. Notification addresses: A valid address for warnings and notices.

What to avoid

• Blank fields. A contract filled in afterwards leads to disputes.
• Having an eviction undertaking signed together with the rental contract. Such undertakings may be considered invalid. For details, see our article eviction undertaking.
• Wrong address and ID. If notices and warnings do not arrive, rights are lost.

Frequently asked questions

Is it necessary to make the contract at a notary?

No. Notarisation increases evidentiary strength but is not mandatory.

Is stamp duty paid on a rental contract?

Yes. Stamp duty is calculated on the rent; for the rate and details, see our stamp duty article.

Is a ready-made template enough?

A template is useful as a start, but it needs to be customised for your specific situation. For an example apartment in our rental portfolio, see the listing.

Sources: mevzuat.gov.tr · adalet.gov.tr

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice; legislation and practice may change. Compiled as of October 2026. For your specific case, contact us or consult a lawyer.