Renting a condo in Thailand as a foreigner

The lease

Most condo leases run for 12 months. Shorter leases exist but usually cost more per month. Ask for the lease in English, or in Thai and English side by side.

Deposit and advance rent

The usual arrangement is a security deposit of two months' rent plus the first month's rent in advance. The deposit is returned at the end of the lease, less the cost of any damage beyond normal wear.

Take dated photos of every room, and note any marks or faults, before you move in. This is the best protection for your deposit.

What's included

• Furniture and appliances: confirm the list in writing and attach it to the lease.
• Common-area fees are normally paid by the owner. Check the lease says so.
• Electricity and water are normally paid by the tenant. Ask whether the building charges the standard utility rate or its own, higher rate.
• Internet is usually set up in the tenant's name.

TM30: reporting where you live

Thai immigration law requires the owner of the place where a foreigner stays to report that foreigner's address. This is known as TM30. Ask your landlord to file it and give you the receipt; you may need it when you extend your visa or apply for a work permit.

Ending the lease early

Many leases say the tenant loses the deposit if they leave before the term ends. If your job could move you, ask for a diplomatic or early-termination clause before you sign.

Visas

Your visa type affects how long you can stay and which documents a landlord may ask for. See our overview of visa types.