Due to the state of war in Ukraine, the rental market has changed compared to previous years. Demand for housing in relatively safe regions has significantly increased, as have rental prices — both for short-term and long-term stays. During martial law, rental prices may fluctuate, especially in large and safer cities.

When renting an apartment in Ukraine, there are several important things to know that will help you find accommodation that best suits your needs and budget, and provides a comfortable place to live.

The most important thing to pay attention to — especially when renting long-term — is the rental agreement and the conditions specified in it. Here are some key rules to follow when renting a flat in Ukraine:

  • Make sure you’re signing a contract with the actual property owner or their official representative. Check their identity documents and proof of ownership (you may need assistance from someone who understands Ukrainian and is familiar with legal documents).

  • Check that all utilities are functioning properly: electricity, water, sewage, ventilation, gas, and central heating (if available).

  • Carefully review all terms in the rental agreement. Pay close attention to:

    • the landlord’s full details,

    • the exact address of the property,

    • payment terms (amount, due dates, whether payments are in cash or via bank transfer),

    • rental duration (check-in and check-out dates),

    • the rights and responsibilities of both landlord and tenant,

    • and the conditions for early termination of the contract.
       Note that, as a common practice in Ukraine, landlords usually require payment for two months upfront — the first and the last month of rent.

  • Choose housing in safe regions of Ukraine. As of 2025, these include the western regions (Zakarpattia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Lviv, Volyn, Chernivtsi, Rivne, and Khmelnytskyi), and parts of the central and northern regions (Vinnytsia, Cherkasy, Kyiv, Kirovohrad, Zhytomyr).

  • When selecting an apartment, check for the presence of a nearby shelter, which may be needed during air raid alerts, and consider the proximity to metro stations or public transport stops.

  • Keep copies of all documents, including the rental agreement and the landlord’s property documents — with an official translation if necessary.

Renting housing in Ukraine during wartime requires attentiveness, responsibility, and adherence to safety rules. A careful approach to choosing an apartment, verifying documents, and checking contract terms will help you avoid misunderstandings and make your stay both comfortable and safe.