What are Thailand’s typical rental terms?

The contract, or tenancy agreement, will detail every aspect of the letting of your condominium in Bangkok. A legal document it is important to go through each term to make sure you understand it, are happy with the contents and that you are aware of your obligations as a landlord and the tenant’s responsibilities. Should you have any queries relating to it then it is advisable to seek legal advice. Where you can, getting a copy of the agreement as early as possible to save any delays once a tenant has been found.

Typically in Thailand the length of the tenancy is 12 months. This is a standard amount and many landlords will want to avoid having shorter terms to save changing tenants which comes with extra costs. It is not common for tenants to have a break clause to end the agreement prior to the expiration date with sufficient notice, but expatriate tenants who has been assigned to Bangkok for employment purposes might request a variation of this. A similar clause will likely to be in place to allow the tenant to break the agreement earlier only on the proviso that they been relocated to another city or country for work purposes.

It is standard for a tenant to pay one month’s rent in advance before the tenancy commences and a two-month deposit. The exception to this is landlords who have five or more properties who must comply to the terms of the New Thai Rental Law released this year, where the deposit is only one month. To learn more about this law visit out blog here.

The deposit is held by the landlord or the managing agent until the end of the term. The details of what is can be used against should be clearly stated in the tenancy agreement. This should include any shortage in rent, any unpaid bills and any damages outside of fair wear and tear. A tenant cannot be expected to return a property in exactly the same condition it was at the beginning of the letting as general usage is permitted. However, the tenant is liable any damage above and beyond this.

An inventory is required for all rented properties. Listing all items in the property and their condition at of the start of the tenancy, the tenants must be given this document for their records. Additionally, they must agree to its contents in writing or state what they do not agree with. Photographic evidence is a great tool and will help iron out any disputes too.