What are the essential tips and considerations for renting an apartment in Bangkok?

Question

What are some tips, dos and don’ts that you can share when renting an apartment in Bangkok?

How about rental agreements? Anything to watch out for?

Ask Thailand · Answer

When renting an apartment in Bangkok, consider the following tips and precautions: 1. Always check the English translation of your lease against the Thai version, as the latter is the legally binding document. 2. Inspect the property for any defects, documenting everything with timestamped photos before moving in. 3. Investigate the noise levels by speaking to neighbors; be aware of potential disturbances from nearby temples or parties. 4. Review the property amenities and shared spaces, including ventilation and maintenance of communal areas, and check the working condition of all elevators. 5. Be cautious about the utility costs; landlords may charge higher rates for electricity. 6. Understand the rental terms such as deposit returns and rules regarding guests, including the provision of additional keys.

Marty ********* · Answer

I signed a new lease yesterday. The contract was in Thai and English. Read the contract. You can negotiate. The owner also supplied a full photo inventory. You should do the same before you move in. I asked if she had ever rented to a foreigner and will do a TM30. Does the owner live in Thailand and can they be contacted about various issues. My girlfriend will move in with me. Is that OK and can we get two sets of keys. Check out the neighborhood, the parking,the transportation options. Check out the pool, gym, mailroom, package delivery, food delivery. Check out the building security.

I’ve lived in Thailand 8 years and have been lucky to have a great landlord. I hope the new one is the same.

I’ve lived in Thailand 8 years and have been lucky to have a great landlord. I hope the new one is the same.

Wayne ******** · Answer

Electricity prices are 4.15 baht per kilowatt/unit. Landlords will double that so it can be expensive. I was paying 10,000 baht a month rent & 6/7,000 baht a month electricity.

Peter ******* · Answer

Dont pee in the kitchen sink. Thats a good one in a share house.

Julie ****************** · Answer

I'm actually researching this right now and from what I've seen-- make sure that the English translation of your lease matches the Thai version as the Thai version is the legal one. You might want to tap on the walls when viewing to see how thick they are... newer buildings have issues with very thin walls/noise from neighbors, notice the state of the trash room (bugs can be an issue), notice if the shared spaces are air conditioned, notice if all of the elevators are working/running, check Airbnb to see if you can find the building with listings there (you could end up with rotating neighbor issues). Look at the Google reviews for the complex.

Michael ******** · Answer

Take plenty photos check for defects, using timestamp app. E mail them to landlord/owner if possible for proof when moving in. Dont forget undersinks and stuff