Review a Thailand lease before paying

Confirm the unit number, building, condition, and the identity or authority of the person offering it. An agent should be able to explain whom they represent and how payments connect to the owner or authorized business. Request a receipt that identifies the unit and purpose of each amount.

Do not assume a lobby viewing proves control of the apartment. If ownership, authorization, subletting, company accommodation, or immigration reporting is unclear, ask for appropriate evidence or professional help before payment.

Record rent, booking or holding payment, security deposit, advance rent, utility rates, internet, parking, common fees, cleaning, repairs, late charges, renewal, notice, early termination, and deposit-return timing. A low rent can be outweighed by opaque electricity markup or an impossible exit clause.

Write what happens when the contract, advertisement, and spoken promise differ. A promise that matters belongs in the signed agreement or an accepted attachment. Keep the language version you understood and seek qualified interpretation when terms are unclear.

Test water, hot water, air-conditioning, locks, windows, appliances, drains, internet options, noise, lifts, access, fire exits, and visible moisture or damage. Ask who pays for routine and major repairs and how urgent problems are reported.

Photograph and describe the condition at handover with date and acknowledgement. Inventory should include keys, access cards, remotes, furnishings, and existing damage. The move-in record protects both sides better than a memory dispute months later.