AZE.US
For many students and young professionals in Azerbaijan, renting an apartment often comes down to price and location. Proximity to universities or workplaces and affordable rent typically drive decisions. Safety considerations, however, are frequently addressed only after a lease is signed.
Recent incidents involving gas-related accidents in residential properties have drawn attention to safety standards in rental housing. Real estate agents and legal experts say tenants should prioritize basic safety checks before moving in.
Key Safety Checks
Prospective renters are advised to verify the condition of gas systems, heating boilers and ventilation. Carbon monoxide exposure remains one of the most serious risks in poorly maintained apartments. Ensuring that gas appliances have been properly installed and serviced can significantly reduce potential hazards.
Adequate ventilation, functioning smoke detectors and clear emergency exits are also essential. In older buildings, tenants should confirm whether maintenance work has been conducted on heating and utility systems.
Importance of a Written Contract
Legal experts emphasize the importance of signing a formal rental agreement. A written contract can clarify responsibilities for maintenance and repairs, including who is responsible for servicing gas equipment or addressing safety concerns.
In the absence of a contract, liability may become complicated in the event of an accident. Responsibility could potentially involve the landlord, tenant, service technician or utility provider, depending on the circumstances and investigative findings.
Shifting Awareness
Real estate intermediaries report that awareness of safety issues has increased, particularly among parents renting apartments for their children. Questions about gas systems, ventilation and building infrastructure have become more common in recent months.
While affordability remains a priority in Azerbaijan’s rental market, specialists say tenants should not treat safety as secondary. Lower rent may reduce short-term expenses, but inadequate safety precautions can carry far greater risks.
Experts recommend conducting a basic safety inspection, requesting maintenance records and ensuring contractual clarity before committing to a rental agreement.