Renting in thailand what you need to know

DDproperty Editorial Team
Renting in thailand what you need to know
Successfully finding a place to rent in Thailand can be difficult for someone who is unfamiliar with the country.
The real estate agent is therefore, your best asset. An agent is instrumental in helping you acquire a place to stay.

As the policies may differ in the different regions in Thailand, getting an estate agent localised in that specific area is advised.

Even if your agent ends up doing everything for you, it’s best to go into every potential transaction armed with information.

These are the things you want to do before you hire an agent;

1. Source out locations you want to live in

2. Establish a price range and size of the apartment you are comfortable with

3. Decide on the type of furnishing you want included

4. Find a reliable and knowledgeable agent

Once you’ve acquired the services of an agent, he/she will embark on finding potential places for you to look at based on your criteria.

As you meet various landlords, there are things you need to know;

1. All rent can be negotiated and are not usually adjusted for the duration of the contracted period.

2. Cheap apartments may require a 3-6 month contract. The best rates obviously come with a longer tenure so you’ll have to negotiate.

3. Most landlords require 1-2 months down payment. Sometimes, the landlord may require 3 months if the furniture is new or if you’re moving in with a pet. The amount will be completely refunded once the tenure ends and you leave, provided the property is undamaged.

4. Landlords are required to inform tenants in advance of any pending rent adjustments. This usually occurs when the lease is up for renewal.

5. Rent is paid at the start of each month, not the end.

6. Utility bills such as electricity and internet may or may not be included in the rental amount. You must verify this with the landlord.

7. Prematurely ending the contract results in the deposit being forfeited. However, consider setting up a diplomatic clause to avoid this. This is however, subject to the landlord’s approval.

8. The landlord can call the police to forcibly evict the tenant if the contract has been breached. Prior negotiations will usually happen before such extreme actions are taken.

9. There are no specific laws protecting tenants in Thailand. Contractual rights are all that governs the working relationship of the landlord and tenant.
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