Hey everyone, I’m about to rent a condo in Bangkok and wanted to check what’s standard practice here.
The agent told me: • I need to pay first month’s rent + security deposit (2 months) before the landlord will sign the lease. I paid the first month rent online to hold down my apartment • She said the landlord typically only signs once all money is received. • Alternatively, she suggested I could bring cash on move-in day, pay her directly, and then get the signed contract + keys together.
Back in London, I’m used to signing first, then paying, so I just want to make sure this is normal in Bangkok and that I’m not putting myself at risk.
Questions: 1. Is it standard here for the landlord to hold back their signature until the tenant has paid everything? 2. If I pay the agent (not the landlord directly), what’s the safest way to make sure I’m protected — e.g., should I insist on a written receipt right away? 3. On move-in day, should I expect to walk away with both keys and a fully signed lease?
Would really appreciate insights from anyone who has rented long-term in Bangkok recently. 🙏
TLDR : Answer Summary
When renting a condo in Bangkok, it is common for landlords to require full payment, including the first month’s rent and a two-month security deposit, before signing the lease. Many expats advise against paying any amount until the contract is signed to avoid scams. It is recommended to pay the agent only once the lease is signed and to ensure that you receive a written receipt. On the move-in day, tenants should typically receive the keys and the fully signed lease upon payment.
