A property may look attractive in photographs but feel very different during an actual inspection. A careful viewing can help you identify maintenance problems, understand the total cost and avoid disagreements after moving in.
Use this checklist when viewing a condo, apartment, townhouse or house in Thailand.
Confirm the Property Details
Make sure the property you visit matches the advertisement.
Confirm:
- Property address
- Building and unit number
- Monthly rent
- Property size
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Included furniture
- Available parking
- Move-in date
- Minimum rental period
Ask whether the person showing the property is the owner or an authorised representative.
Inspect the Interior
Check every room instead of focusing only on appearance.
Test:
- Lights and electrical outlets
- Air conditioners and remote controls
- Water pressure and hot water
- Toilets, taps and drains
- Refrigerator and cooking equipment
- Washing machine
- Doors, locks and windows
- Internet and mobile reception
- Furniture and storage
- Smoke detectors where provided
Look carefully for water damage, mould, insects, unusual smells, broken fixtures and cracks.
Check the Building
If the property is inside a condominium or apartment building, inspect the common areas and available services.
Consider:
- Security guards and access systems
- CCTV coverage
- Lifts
- Fire exits
- Parking
- Swimming pool
- Fitness centre
- Waste disposal
- Building cleanliness
- Management office
- Rules concerning pets and visitors
Ask about facility hours and whether any services require additional payment.
Examine the Neighbourhood
Check the distance to transportation, shops, schools, hospitals and your workplace.
Visit at a realistic commuting time to understand traffic and noise. A property that appears close on a map may still require a long journey during Bangkok rush hour.
Understand Every Cost
Ask for a complete breakdown of:
- Monthly rent
- Security deposit
- Advance rent
- Electricity rate
- Water rate
- Internet charges
- Parking fees
- Building charges
- Cleaning or move-out fees
- Maintenance responsibilities
Ensure these conditions are included in the written agreement.
Document the Property’s Condition
Photograph existing scratches, stains, broken furniture or other damage before accepting the property. Ask the landlord or agent to acknowledge the condition in writing.
Keep copies of the signed lease, payment receipts, inventory and communications.
Never Rush a Payment
Do not transfer a deposit until you have verified the property, advertiser and agreement. Be cautious if someone refuses a viewing, requests payment to an unrelated person or pressures you to pay immediately.
Start Your Search
Browse properties for rent on Rent Baan and contact the relevant owner or agent to arrange a viewing. Always complete your own checks before signing or paying.