Bangkok offers renters an overwhelming amount of choice!
With literally hundreds of condos, apartments and neighborhoods to choose from, it is important NOT to get carried away. During your Property Search, stay calm and collected at all times; making sure not to throw “common sense” out of the window.
Here are common pitfalls that you may come across in the city:
*Note: The pitfalls are reviewed in chronological order of a property search!
Beginning of Search
1. Condos and Apartments are Totally Different
In some countries the word condo, apartment, flat or property is interchangeable and are practically synonyms. However in Bangkok, Condos and Apartments are different accommodation options.
Condos are owned by individual landlords and Apartments are buildings managed and owned by a single company. It is important to note that Apartments may charge large premiums on the Utility Consumption (I.e. Electricity, Water, and even Internet).
2. Property Agents
It is likely you will engage the services of a Property Agent to find your dream home. Note that in Bangkok, Property Agents do not need a license or any certification to operate and provide rental services.
Therefore before any money exchanges hands or rental contracts are signed, ensure you have the Property Agent’s company details and possibly even a copy of the Agent’s ID (If the Agent is working Freelance). Also demand an official receipt if any payments are made.
During Condo or Apartment Viewings
3. Rainy Season
When considering the neighborhood and general location of the property, remember that Bangkok experiences “Rainy Season” for 3-4 Months of the year (July-October). During this period, it can rain heavily and commuting or travelling to other parts of the city may be an issue.
Therefore, ensure that the Condo/Apartment is conveniently located and situated on a road that is free from flooding.
4. Property Surroundings and View
Remember to take a look outside and carefully observe the property’s surroundings. Ensure the condo is not facing an upcoming or potential construction site (Which is common in bustling Bangkok) or even a noisy venue (I.e. Nightclub, bar or busy road)
5. Air Con Units
Using Air Cons is an inevitable part of the Bangkok experience!
Therefore before renting ensure the property’s Air Cons are modern or at least in good condition. Old or deficient Air Cons can be energy guzzlers and electricity bills can run in the thousands of Baht!
Property Reservation and Signing
6. Booking Fee is Non-Refundable
It is standard in Bangkok for renters to be asked to pay a Booking Fee (Or 1st Month’s Advance Rent) to reserve the Property. This guarantees that the landlord will not offer the Condo to anyone else.
Once paid, the Booking Fee/1st Months’ Rent is non-refundable!
7. Rent and Utilities Only
Tenants are only liable to pay for the monthly rent or utilities consumed (I.e. Electricity, Water, Internet, etc.).
Beware of Landlords/Agents that request extra charges such as the payment of Building Managements Fees, Building Insurance or non-existent occupation taxes. There should be absolutely no other costs or additional charges.
8. Lease and Inventory
Bangkok can be a relaxed place where rights and status of tenants are not established and/or protected. Therefore do not leave yourself exposed, always ensure you sign a bilingual (Thai and English) Lease Agreement with a supporting Inventory List.
This will ensure a smoother Checkout and Security Deposit Refund process at the end of the Rental Period.
