Are you an expat in Thailand looking to rent a condo for the long term, but worried about maintenance costs? Do you know who typically pays for maintenance in a long-term rental agreement? Let’s break down the costs and responsibilities involved in renting a condo in Thailand.
Understanding Maintenance Costs in Thailand
As an expat in Thailand, renting a condo can be a great option, but it’s essential to understand who is responsible for maintenance costs in a long-term rental agreement. Typically, the owner of the condo is responsible for maintenance costs, but there are some exceptions.
What Maintenance Costs Are Typically Covered by the Owner?
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Juristic building maintenance: This includes the maintenance of the building’s common areas, such as the lobby, gym, and swimming pool.
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Condo maintenance: This includes the maintenance of the individual condo unit, including any necessary repairs to the unit’s plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems.
What Maintenance Costs Are Typically Covered by the Renter?
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Breakage: If the renter damages any part of the condo or its fixtures and fittings, they will be responsible for paying for the repairs.
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Electricity and water: The renter is typically responsible for paying for their electricity and water usage.
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WiFi and TV: The cost of WiFi and TV subscription channels is usually negotiable between the owner and the renter.
Tips for Renters
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Always ask the agent or owner about the maintenance costs and who is responsible for paying them.
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Make sure to include this information in the rental agreement.
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Consider negotiating a longer rental period to get a better deal on the rent.
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Research the condo’s management company and their maintenance policies to ensure they are reputable and reliable.
Best Places to Find Long-Term Rentals in Thailand
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Expat forums and Facebook groups: These are great resources for finding long-term rentals and getting advice from other expats who have been through the process.
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Real estate agents: Look for reputable agents who specialize in long-term rentals and have experience working with expats.
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Online property portals: Websites like PropertyGuru and Thailand Property offer a wide range of long-term rentals and allow you to filter by location, price, and amenities.
Additional Resources
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The Thai Government’s website: www.thaigov.go.th (in Thai) provides information on renting property in Thailand, including laws and regulations.
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The Expat Guide to Thailand: www.expat.com offers a comprehensive guide to renting property in Thailand, including tips and advice from experienced expats.
By understanding who is responsible for maintenance costs in a long-term condo rental in Thailand, you can make an informed decision when choosing your next rental property. Always research thoroughly and ask questions before signing a rental agreement.