Podnájom (sublease) is when you rent a place not from the owner, but from another tenant (nájomca). This means the person you are renting from is not the owner, but someone who is renting the place themselves.
Why it is riskier
- A sublease almost always needs the owner's permission. Without it, the sublease might not be valid.
- Your rights are weaker: if the main rental agreement ends, your sublease usually ends too.
- You have less legal protection than a direct tenant.
Many Ukrainians live in sublets without knowing it. Before signing, ask if there is written permission from the owner and who the owner is. If possible, make a rental agreement directly with the owner. This will make your situation more secure and make it easier to register your address and get proof of residence. Write down all the terms of the sublease as well. Remember: the tenant's verbal promise is worth little if the owner does not know you are living there.
