Croatia Rental Laws: Pro-landlord, Neutral or Pro-tenant?

Croatia's landlord and tenant laws are judged by the Global Property Guide to be slightly Pro-Landlord between landlord and tenant. Croatia’s rental market is moderately landlord-friendly but includes reasonable tenant safeguards to ensure fairness. The balance can vary depending on the type of rental (private vs. social housing) and the specific circumstances.

Rents: Can landlord and tenant freely agree rents in Croatia?

There are no legal caps or government-imposed rent controls for privately negotiated lease agreements, whether residential or commercial. The agreed rent must be clearly stated in the written lease agreement, which is mandatory for leases longer than one year.

While rent is freely negotiable, any changes to the rent during the lease term typically require mutual agreement, unless the contract specifically allows for periodic increases (e.g., based on inflation or market changes).

Deposits

There is no maximum deposit. One or two month's deposit is customary.

What rights do landlords and tenants have in Croatia, especially as to duration of contract, and eviction?

There are two types of rental contracts:

• Long-term contract – term is for an indefinite period with no end date specified
• Short-term contract – term is defined, with a start and end date

The tenant is entitled to use common areas, facilities, and equipment within the building that are essential for enjoying the apartment, as well as the surrounding land associated with the property. The tenant must take care to prevent damage to the apartment and is not permitted to make alterations to the apartment, shared areas, or building installations without the landlord’s prior written approval.

The tenant is also required to promptly inform the landlord of any necessary repairs within the apartment or in the building’s shared areas that fall under the landlord’s responsibility. The tenant is liable for any damage they cause, in accordance with applicable laws. Additionally, the tenant must pay rent within the timeframes specified in the lease agreement.

How effective is the Croatian legal system?

Evicting over-staying tenants can be difficult. Zagreb's courts (e.g.) are much clogged, and cases take time. Informal methods of using 'agencies,' i.e., thugs, are common and tend to be recommended by realtors.

Legislation

Law on Apartment Rental
Law on Sale of Apartments with Tenancy Rights