Renting a house in Chiang Mai: deposits, contracts and bills
What landlords usually ask for up front, how contracts work, and which bills you pay yourself.
Renting a house or a condo in Chiang Mai is straightforward, but the terms vary from one landlord to the next. Here's what to expect and what to ask before you sign.
Money up front
Most landlords ask for a security deposit plus the first month's rent before you move in. The deposit is commonly two months' rent, sometimes one or three. Get a receipt, and agree in the contract when the deposit comes back after you move out.
Contracts
One-year contracts are the most common. Shorter ones are possible, but the monthly rent is often higher. Check that the contract states:
- The rent, the deposit and the date rent is due each month.
- How much notice either side has to give, and what happens if you leave early.
- Who pays for repairs, and how quickly the landlord will fix things.
- The list of furniture and appliances included.
Take photos of every room on the day you move in, so there's no argument about the condition later.
Bills
In a house you'll usually pay the electricity and water bills yourself, at the utility company's rates. Some condos and apartment buildings charge their own rate for electricity, which can be higher, so ask what the rate per unit is.
Internet is normally set up in your name with a provider of your choice. In a condo, the common area fee is usually paid by the owner, but check the contract.
Viewing a place
Run the taps, try the air conditioning in every room and ask how old the units are. If you're renting in the rainy season, look for water stains on ceilings and around windows.
Ready to look? See all houses and condos for rent.
