Answered3 years ago

Is it common practice in Thailand to pay the full 3 months' rent at lease signing or just a portion?

Property Rental Lease Agreement Thailand Rental Practices Rental Deposits Visa Rules Expat Housing

Russell *******

asked Oct 25, 2023

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Property Rental Question.

Property agent is requesting the 2 months deposit and 1 month in advance rent payment (3 months total) all on the day of signing the lease 1 month before move in date. 

I am not questioning the 2 + 1 practice.  My question is about timing of the payments.

Is all 3 months typically paid on lease signing or typically 1 month on lease signing and the 2 months deposit paid on handover / move in date?

Answer summary

In Thailand, it is typical for property agents to request the total of 2 months' deposit and 1 month's rent (3 months total) upon signing the lease, particularly if the move-in date is a month later. However, there are varying practices; some tenants may only pay 1 month's rent upfront and the deposit at the move-in date, especially if the property is still occupied. Ultimately, negotiation with the landlord can lead to different arrangements based on the situation and the landlord's reputation.

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Wolfgang *******

If you are in doubt and don't know the landlord or the rental property, I would recommend only paying a month's rental deposit first and the rest when you move in. A reputable landlord will agree to this.

This is how I do with my rental properties, because I have nothing to hide.

However, my regular tenants pay everything in advance and then get cheaper rent in return. Win - win!

3 years ago

Claude *******

Deposit is one month, not 2.

3 years ago

Wolfgang *******

@Claude ******

But only for privately used rental properties. For business premises, either a 2-month rental deposit is usual or an extra payment (key money) for any installations, aircons, furniture etc.

3 years ago

Kuan ******

Yes n if u pay 3 months, they should give u all the keys at the same time but if they refuse to do so, then arrange the lease signing nearer to the date when u are starting the lease. But in such event, u may need to pay one month as a booking fee then the balance 2 months on signing n getting the keys

3 years ago

Wolfgang *******

@Kuan *****

Not correct! How can they give you the keys if someone else is still using the apartment?

The keys you will get on the day when you move in - not earlier!

3 years ago

Kuan ******

@Wolfgang ******

you are correct if the premises is still occupied - in such cases, I will not commence the lease until the owner has time to clean up the place n therefore pay a deposit n postpone my signing of agreement .. it is all possible depending on scenario 👍👍

3 years ago