What Should You Know When Renting Apartments in Thailand?

If you're planning to stay in Thailand for a month or more, it might be a good option to look at Bangkok monthly rental apartments, or in whichever city you've picked, rather than staying in a hotel. There are benefits to long-term rentals, and you can enjoy them more if you understand how apartment rentals work in Thailand before you sign a lease.

Define Your Priorities

Just like you would carefully consider all your options when investing in property, it's important to define what you're looking for in a rental apartment. Make a list of things that matter before you browse any listings.

• Are you looking for something within your price range or budget?
  
• Do location and nearby amenities matter to you?
  
• Are you renting solely for a holiday, or will you be working at the same time?
  
• Do you have a preferred neighbourhood or non-negotiable features–pet friendly, ocean view, etc?
  
  

Know Your Options

Different locations have different properties to offer visitors. In Bangkok, there are three popular types that you're likely to choose from.

• Condominiums are privately owned properties that usually come with facilities, such as 24/7 security and a swimming pool. They're often furnished, but check with the property just to be sure.
  
• Apartments are usually less expensive than condos but tend to be older and with fewer fancy features. The upside is that terms are mostly flexible, and you won't have to deal with a lot of paperwork.
  
• Service apartments come fully furnished and are popular among people booking short-term stays. They are less expensive than condos but more expensive than regular apartments.
  
  

Make a List of Key Considerations

For a stress-free rental experience, make sure to list down the pointers below and check with the landlords or property managers:

• Negotiable rent
  
• Security deposits
  
• Length of lease contract
  
• Payment schedule
  
• Inclusions, such as utility bills, service fees, etc.
  
• Preferred amenities: air conditioning, building rules, noise levels, security systems, etc.
  
• Rules on early termination and grounds for eviction.
  
  

Make sure that you understand your rights as a tenant and the lease agreement before you sign anything.

Protect Yourself Against Scams

Only transact with reliable and trusted property and service providers. Remember to verify who you're dealing with before signing anything.

• Visit the property in person and check if the description matches. Check if the amenities work, if possible.
  
• Think twice before pursuing a low-priced rental in more popular locations.
  
  

Prepare Essential Documents

• Before you can sign a lease, you must provide your landlord with a clear copy of your passport.
  
• Depending on the length of your stay, they may ask for proof of its validity, such as a work permit
  
• Once you've signed a contract, check that your landlord has submitted the TM30 document to Thai immigration. Otherwise, you might have to pay a fine or be denied a visa extension if you apply for it.
  
  

Renting a short-term or long-term apartment in Thailand doesn't have to be complicated, but you do have to understand the rules surrounding it to avoid legal complications. Spare yourself the hassle and headache, and book an apartment directly with Kasemkij, Bangkok's trusted provider of commercial and residential properties for lease.

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