How to Rent an Apartment in Chengdu
A Complete Guide for Expats

BambooHouse · Updated July 2026

Moving to Chengdu is exciting — but finding the right apartment can be overwhelming. This guide covers what you'll spend, where to look, what to check before signing, and how to settle in without the headaches.

1. Budget — What You'll Actually Spend

Your monthly rent depends on three things: location, size, and how new the building is. Here's a realistic picture of what you'll pay in mid-2026 for furnished apartments.

Monthly rent ranges

Other costs to budget for

• Deposit — Usually 1 month's rent. Refundable at move-out (condition-based).
• Property management fee (物业费 / HOA) — ¥1–¥8 per sqm per month. It varies by building — higher-end communities charge more for better facilities and landscaping. A 100sqm apartment typically adds ¥100–¥800/month.
• Electricity — ¥100–¥400/month (higher in summer with AC or winter with heating).
• Water — ¥30–¥80/month.
• Gas — ¥30–¥100/month (if you cook).
• Internet — ¥50–¥150/month for fiber broadband.

2. Choosing the Right Area

Chengdu is a big city, but the areas expats live in are fairly concentrated. Here's a breakdown of the main options.

3. Viewing Checklist — What to Check Before You Sign

Photos can be misleading. Here's what to look for when you visit in person or during a video tour.

• Water pressure — Turn on all taps and flush the toilet. Low pressure is a common issue in older buildings.
• AC & heating — Run each unit for a minute. Check if it actually cools or heats.
• Windows — Do they seal properly? Listen for street noise.
• Kitchen — Does the stove work? Is there a range hood? Counter space OK?
• Shower — Check water temperature and drain speed. A slow drain in the shower is a red flag.
• Furniture condition — Look for stains, tears, broken drawers, or wobbly legs.
• Mold or damp spots — Check bathroom corners, behind the toilet, and window edges.
• Phone signal — Step into each room and check. Some buildings have dead zones.
• Storage — Open every closet. Is there enough space for your stuff?

4. Lease & Deposit — What to Watch For

Leases in China are typically in Chinese. Even if you don't read it, a few key points are worth knowing.

Standard lease terms

• Usually 1 year. Some landlords accept 6 months, sometimes at a slightly higher monthly rate.
• Early termination — Typically 1 month's rent as penalty. Check this clause carefully.
• Renewal — Rent may increase on renewal, usually by 3–5% but negotiable.

Deposit protection

• Take photos of everything before moving in — walls, floors, appliances, furniture. Share them with the landlord or agent.
• Get existing damage acknowledged in writing or photos before you move in.
• Normal wear and tear should not be deducted from your deposit.

Know your responsibilities

• Minor repairs (light bulbs, faucet washers, drain clogs) — usually tenant pays.
• Major repairs (AC breakdown, plumbing leaks, appliance failure) — usually landlord pays.
• Contract translation — If the lease is in Chinese, get a trusted translation before signing.

5. After Move-In — Setting Up Life

Internet & WiFi

Three main providers in Chengdu: China Telecom, China Unicom, and China Mobile. Fiber connections are standard in most apartment buildings. You'll need your passport to sign up, and setup usually takes 1–3 days. We can help you pick the best provider and arrange installation.

Police registration

Foreigners must register at the local police station within 24 hours of moving in. Your landlord or agent will know which station to go to. Bring: passport, lease contract, and a copy of the landlord's ID. It's free and takes about 15 minutes.

Utilities

Electricity, water, and gas are usually paid through Alipay or WeChat. You can also pay at any 红旗连锁 (Hongqi convenience store). Set up auto-pay to avoid late fees.

Getting help

WeChat is how everything works in China — communication, payments, even booking services. If you need help with any of the above, that's exactly what we're here for. One message and we handle it.