The year of the 'Frankenflat'? Apartment layouts in Prague are getting weird

This week, as government leaders discuss a draft law to address the housing crisis, it’s a good time to consider how renters must navigate an increasingly complex landscape. With rental units getting smaller and prices rising, understanding the size and cost of rentals can be overwhelming for those who are new to the market.

Despite the escalating costs, renting in cities remains nearly half the price of property ownership, creating a competitive and crowded rental market. Gaining insight into the Czech rental market requires knowledge of terminology and pricing, especially due to the growing trend of converting small flats into smaller units or the emerging popularity of micro-apartments.

Advertised as a “non-shared 1+kk” within a “shared apartment,” this listing for an apartment in Holešovice, shared on a Facebook page called Praha Zdarma, is an unconventional unit that straddles communal and private living.

The listing, originally posted on espolubydleni.cz as well as other major real estate listing sites), has since been removed. But it’s a case study in the increasingly complicated rental landscape evolving in Czechia.

Here a larger 3+1 apartment is divided into three mini-apartments. Each mini-apartment includes a private room with a small kitchen area, while tenants share bathroom and toilet facilities. The total price is CZK 11,900, which includes energy and internet costs.

Residents enjoy the convenience of a mini kitchen for meal preparation but face the discomfort of communal hygiene arrangements reminiscent of dormitory or hostel living. (Adding to the peculiarity, the landlord requires potential tenants to explain their reasons for wanting to live in the apartment!)

It’s vital to note that a “livable room” must meet specific criteria: at least 8 square meters (sqm) in floor area, with a studio layout requiring a minimum of 16 sqm. Beware listings that include non-windowed rooms, as these are not considered livable spaces. Additionally, areas under 1.2 meters in height should not count towards the total area of rooms with sloping ceilings.

Czechia is witnessing a significant surge in rental prices, which are heavily influenced by property layout and location. Recent data reveals that rents increased by four percent compared to last year in the third quarter of this year and saw a substantial nine percent rise against the second quarter.

The average monthly rent now stands at CZK 15,791. An analysis from real estate site UlovDomov.cz found that rents for smaller apartments have soared by 28 percent, while larger apartments have experienced a 22 percent increase over the past three years.

Given the complexities and peculiarities of today’s rental listings, potential renters should stay informed. Here are some tips for identifying red flags in apartment listings:

Ambiguous descriptions: If the listing uses vague language or terms that seem contradictory (like “non-shared” in a “shared apartment”), proceed with caution.

Inconsistent layouts: Verify the actual layout against standard definitions. A listing that fails to provide clear floor plans or descriptions may be misleading.

Excessive fees: Be wary of listings with a long list of extra fees or ask for large upfront payments. Always inquire about the security deposit and whether utilities are included.

Lack of documentation: Legitimate landlords should be able to provide necessary documentation, such as proof of ownership or prior rental agreements. If they seem hesitant, that could be a warning sign.

Strange requirements: Any unusual requirements from landlords, such as interviews or personal statements, should raise eyebrows. These could indicate a less-than-ideal rental situation.