Renting in Bangkok: a checklist for the day you view the place
What to look at, test and ask during a viewing, so the decision rests on what you saw and not on the photos.
Photos and listing text show a rental at its best. A viewing is your one chance to see it as you would live in it. Take this list with you, and tick it off on your phone as you go. It covers the unit, the building, the neighbourhood and the questions to ask. It is general guidance, not legal advice.
Before you go
Check the listing's address and the nearest station or main road, and plan how you will get there at the hour you would normally travel. Ask the agent which unit you will see, and confirm it is the same one as in the listing. Bring your phone, a charger and a tape measure if you have furniture in mind.
Inside the unit
Open every door, window and cupboard. Run the taps, flush the toilet and check the water pressure in the shower. Switch on each light and each air conditioner and listen for noise. Look at the ceiling and the corners for stains, and at the floor for damage. Check the mobile signal in every room, and test any appliance that is listed as included.
The building or the street
Look at the lift waiting time, the entrance, the post boxes and the parking arrangements. Ask about the facilities you were told about and whether they are open to tenants. For a house, walk around it, check the drainage, the gate and the boundary, and ask how rubbish is collected.
The commute and the neighbourhood
Visit at the time you would be there on a normal weekday if you can. Walk to the nearest station or bus stop, find the closest shop, pharmacy and food, and notice the noise from the road at that hour.
Questions to ask the landlord or agent
Ask what is included in the rent, how electricity and water are charged and how the bills are shown to you. Ask the length of the lease, the notice period and the rules about pets, guests and decoration. Ask who you call for repairs and how fast they are usually handled. Ask for each amount you will pay before moving in to be listed separately.
Keep your own record
Take dated photos and short videos of the unit, the meters and any marks that are already there, and keep them with your contract. If you later need to show what condition you received it in, you will have the evidence. For the money side of move-in, read Thailand rental deposit rules.
Next step
When you have a short list, browse homes for rent and book viewings for the same day, so the places are fresh in your mind when you compare them. If you want help, leave Happy Home a message.