What should I check in a rental agreement to avoid common issues in Thailand?

Jun 1, 2021
3 years ago
Hope *****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
What are some clauses I shouldn’t be sure to check and add to a rental agreement here. Any common problem?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
When renting in Thailand, it's crucial to thoroughly review your rental agreement to avoid common pitfalls. Key points to check include the terms regarding the deposit, as many renters have reported difficulty in getting their deposits refunded. It's advisable to document the property's condition with photos or videos both when you move in and out to protect yourself. Additionally, clarify how utility bills are handled—some landlords may charge above the government rates for electricity or water. It's also beneficial to negotiate the rental price, anticipating potential losses with the deposit. Consider using rental agencies recommended by locals or exploring short-term rental options, such as AirBNB, which often require no deposit.
Terary **********
I have had 5 landlords. 1 gave me 100% depost, 2 required no deposit, 2 gave me some portion of the deposit back. The most recent kept 10,000 to pay for a deep cleaning. I am not sure how fair that is - but they did give me back most of my deposit.

If I were to rent a place that required a deposit I would make sure the place was super clean before I give up the money (none of that, it will be done by the time you move in).

Deposits here seem to be more about covering the cost of natural wear-and-tear.
Terary **********
I would expect nothing. It all depends on the agreement. I have seen bunches of places listed as sublet. I think those people are trying to recover their deposit. I don't know how successful they are. If you expect to leave short term, you maybe able to find short term arrangements.

I would consider AirBNB month-to-month. No deposit, sometimes low cleaning fee, sometimes high cleaning fee. You are not obligated to stay beyond the month if you dont like the place.

AirBnb are exactly legal in Thailand. You should not expect the leasor to help you with immigration matters.

I have had good luck finding places on craigslist. You can find no/low deposit.
Hope *****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Terary *********
if I leave early I can expect nothing right? I have to move for work .
Darren ***********
Although I have been among the few who have had no problem getting the deposit back, May I suggest you work on the principle that you will not and negotiate the rental price down to cover your potential loss.
Clive *******
And she paid a year up front FFS 🤣
Clive *******
My x phoned e today and said the women that owns he house does not have it at the moment in my country it does not go to the renter now it goes into a holding account for that reason they are the same everywhere to be honest
Clive *******
Giving
Clive *******
Thais do not like icing money back end off my x only yesterday gave the keys back witch is stupid stay there till they give you it back don't move out you will never get it back and record the conversation actually record everything
Steve **********
Insure govt rate on elect bill. Many charge direct at 2 and 3 times rate. Elect can be more than rent.

As mentioned by other text. Assume never see deposit.
Alan ***********
Rented numerous places in the past and I never got a deposit back! Walk around with the landlord/agent and photos of everything as you move in and a walk around and photos again as you move out a must. Fortunately have our own place now so no more problems with that!
Hope *****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Alan **********
is it two months deposit or 1??
Alan ***********
@Hope ****************
It varied - mostly I paid one month but occasionally the renter asked for 2 months which sucks when you don't get it back!
กะลาสี *****
Hope Benson-Muhammad what city will you be renting in? Maybe someone here can recommend a rental agency.
Hope *****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Wayne ********
i would be very careful about the deposit and getting a refund....
Kool *******
I have never heard of any rental allowing you to make changes to the lease agreement, but good luck trying to
กะลาสี *****
Agree with
@Michael *******
. However, I usually do a video on my phone during the walk around inspection, making sure to cover the car inside and out.
Coen *********
Ask about water and electricity bill, direct from provider?
Michael ********
Would advise getting loads of photos when you start renting to avoid any loss of deposit
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