Introduction
Bulgaria is a growing hotspot for real estate investment and property rentals, attracting both local and foreign tenants. Whether you are a landlord looking to rent out your property or a tenant seeking a rental in Bulgaria, understanding the legal aspects of property leasing is essential to avoid disputes and financial risks.
At Legal Frame Law Office, our experienced real estate lawyers in Bulgaria assist clients with drafting rental contracts, ensuring compliance with Bulgarian property law, and resolving landlord-tenant disputes.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the legal requirements and processes involved in renting property in Bulgaria.
1. Can Foreigners Rent Property in Bulgaria?
✔ Yes! Foreigners can rent properties in Bulgaria without restrictions.
✔ Both EU and non-EU citizens have the right to lease residential and commercial properties.
✔ No special visa or permit is required to rent a home or office space.
However, understanding Bulgarian rental laws is essential for protecting your rights as a tenant or landlord.
At Legal Frame Law Office, we offer legal guidance for foreigners renting or leasing properties in Bulgaria.
2. Types of Rental Contracts in Bulgaria
Bulgarian rental agreements must be written and signed to be legally valid. There are two main types:
A) Short-Term Lease Agreement
✔ Covers rental periods of up to 1 year.
✔ Common for holiday rentals, Airbnb, and temporary stays.
✔ Often not registered with the Bulgarian Property Register.
B) Long-Term Lease Agreement
✔ Typically 1-3 years, renewable.
✔ Used for residential and commercial leases.
✔ Must be notarized and registered for additional legal security.
At Legal Frame Law Office, our real estate lawyers in Bulgaria help draft and review rental contracts to ensure fairness and compliance.
3. Key Legal Considerations When Renting Property in Bulgaria
A) Security Deposit & Rental Payments
✔ Standard security deposit: 1-3 months’ rent.
✔ Rent is usually paid monthly, in advance.
✔ Some contracts allow payments in foreign currencies (EUR, USD, GBP).
B) Landlord & Tenant Responsibilities
✔ Landlord must ensure the property is in habitable condition.
✔ Tenant must pay utility bills and maintain the property.
✔ Repairs: Landlord handles structural issues, while tenant covers minor maintenance.
C) Registration of Rental Contracts
✔ Rental agreements over 1 year must be registered with the Bulgarian Property Register.
✔ This ensures additional legal protection for landlords and tenants.
At Legal Frame Law Office, we provide contract registration and legal compliance services for rental agreements.
4. Tenant Rights & Landlord Obligations in Bulgaria
✔ Tenants cannot be evicted without proper legal notice.
✔ Landlords must give at least 1 month’s notice before terminating a long-term rental contract.
✔ Rent increases must be agreed upon in the contract.
✔ Utility bills and maintenance responsibilities must be clearly outlined.
If a dispute arises, our real estate lawyers in Bulgaria can provide legal representation and mediation.
5. Property Rental Taxes & Fees in Bulgaria
Landlords must declare rental income and pay taxes:
✔ 10% flat tax on rental income (after deductions).
✔ 5% expense deduction for maintenance costs.
✔ Foreign landlords must check for double taxation agreements.
At Legal Frame Law Office, we assist with rental tax compliance and financial structuring.
6. How to Terminate a Rental Contract Legally?
✔ By mutual agreement – Both parties agree in writing.
✔ By expiration – If the contract has a fixed term, no renewal is required.
✔ By notice – Standard notice periods:
- Tenants: 1-3 months, as per contract.
- Landlords: 1-6 months, depending on contract terms.
✔ For breach of contract – If a party violates the agreement, legal action may be required.
If you need to terminate a lease legally, our lawyers at Legal Frame Law Office can assist with negotiations and legal filings.
7. Common Rental Disputes & How to Resolve Them
✔ Non-payment of rent – Landlords can issue legal notices or seek eviction orders.
✔ Property damage disputes – Security deposits may be used, but documentation is required.
✔ Early lease termination – Some contracts have penalty clauses for breaking the lease early.
At Legal Frame Law Office, we offer landlord-tenant dispute resolution services to protect your rights in rental conflicts.
8. How Legal Frame Law Office Can Help You?
At Legal Frame Law Office, we specialize in real estate law and provide legal assistance for property rentals in Bulgaria. Our services include:
✅ Drafting and reviewing rental agreements.
✅ Negotiating rental terms for landlords & tenants.
✅ Registering rental contracts with the Bulgarian authorities.
✅ Resolving rental disputes and eviction cases.
✅ Tax compliance for rental income.
📩 Contact Legal Frame Law Office Today!
📞 Phone: +359876413004
📧 Email: office@legalframe.bg
🌍 Website: www.legalframe.bg
