What are the rules regarding rental deposits and tenant rights under Thailand's rental law for individual landlords?

Thailand rental law rental deposits tenant rights landlord responsibilities property management lease agreements

Sep 3, 2023

a year ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

A few questions regarding rental law:

There's a lot on google regarding the new rental law in 2018, In particular for those entities holding more than five units etc. But what about Individuals or entities with less than five units?

The main questions I was looking for in this context:

... Can they demand double deposit plus first months rent?

....Exactly how long can they hold the deposit after the tenant satisfies the lease and pays the utilities?

....Also, who can legally collect the deposits.. If the agent quits or bolts is the owner liable?

From my experience the agent may ask for the deposit, and then have the tenant paid the rent to the directly to the owner.

Thank you.

Let's minimize the BS and TIT aside please. 🙄

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TLDR : Answer Summary

This inquiry addresses key aspects of Thailand's rental law, particularly concerning individual landlords or entities with fewer than five rental units. It seeks clarification on the legality of demanding double deposits plus the first month's rent, the duration landlords can withhold deposits after lease completion, and the liability of landlords when an agent collects deposits. Commentary includes personal experiences with agents and deposit management practices.

Zap **********

Personal experience - rented through a property manager, two month deposit paid directly to owner. On last day of lease met with both agent from property management company and owner. They calculated electricity charge to date and refunded the difference immediately to my husband's bank account. We left the property in excellent condition, cleaned thoroughly.

a year ago

Brook ********

The agents probably accept the deposit because it is a payment equal to their commission for the lease (2 months rent).

This may be why some landlords fail to return the deposit- they don’t have the money.

a year ago

Jeh *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brook *******

Yes. That is a valid concern.

a year ago

Reply to

Jeh *****

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