What should you look out for when renting a house?
What to Look For When Renting a House
is a question many people ask when looking for a rental home. Currently, there are many types of rental houses available at various price points. However, choosing the right one for a smooth and problem-free life requires considering several factors.
1. Appropriate Rent
One of the first things people consider when choosing a rental house is the "rent." Rental houses come in many price ranges depending on location and type of house. Renters should choose a price that suits their income or salary. They should also consider related monthly expenses such as water and electricity bills.
But renters should also consider value for money. For example, some rental houses have low rent but are unfurnished or far from public transportation. Compared to another rental house that includes some furniture or is closer to public transportation, even if the rent is slightly higher, it might be more worthwhile.
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2. Suitable Location
Just as important as rent is the location. Renters should consider which location best suits their lifestyle, such as being close to work, their children's school, or a public transport station.
The location directly affects the rent. Being in a location with convenient amenities is also a plus. Or, public transportation will naturally have higher rental costs and the crowds may be unavoidable.
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3. Suitable House Type
Another important factor in considering what to look for when renting a house is the house type. Currently, there are many types of rental houses available, such as townhouses, townhomes, semi-detached houses, or detached houses. You should choose one that suits your lifestyle and the number of family members.
For example, if you prefer privacy, a detached house would be a better choice. However, if you have a limited budget but still want a certain level of privacy, a townhouse or corner townhome might be a better option. Or, if there are elderly family members, you might want to choose a rental house with a bedroom on the ground floor.
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4. Furniture or Appliances
This might seem unnecessary for those who already have furniture or appliances, but for those arriving empty-handed, this is crucial. Choosing an empty rental house could lead to wasted time and money on basic furniture and appliances, making it impossible to move in immediately.
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5. Valid Rental Agreement
This is an essential point for any rental decision. A proper rental agreement is crucial to prevent future problems. Or being exploited by the landlord.
Most recently, the Committee on Contracts has announced that the business of renting buildings for residential purposes is a controlled contract business under the Act of 2025, as follows:
– The form, details, and characteristics of the lease agreement remain the same. For example, the lease agreement must use Thai language, no smaller than 2 millimeters, and the font size must not exceed 11 characters per inch.
– Liability under the contract or from tort cannot be exempted or limited without sufficient reasonable cause.
– Changes to the rental rate, utility rate, and service charge rate are prohibited. Before the lease expires:
– The landlord may not forfeit the security deposit or advance rent unless it is the tenant's fault.
– The landlord or their agent may inspect the building without prior notice to the tenant only in emergency situations where failure to do so would cause damage or affect the landlord or other tenants.
– The landlord may not charge for water or electricity in excess of the actual rates charged by the relevant authorities.
– The landlord may not prevent the tenant from using the building, seize or remove property unless the business operator has legally terminated the contract.
– The landlord may not charge a renewal fee to the existing tenant.
– The landlord may not terminate the contract without the tenant breaching any material aspect of the contract.
– The tenant is not liable for damages resulting from the normal use of property or equipment.
– The tenant is not liable for damages to the building, property, and equipment caused by circumstances not attributable to the tenant, or in force majeure events.
– The tenant is not liable for defects in the building, property, and equipment resulting from normal use or wear and tear.
– Details regarding the landlord's and tenant's addresses, the location and details of the leased property, rent, security deposit, and utility costs must be specified, including the method and payment period.
– Upon termination of the lease... – The landlord must return the security deposit within 7 days.
– In case of a breach of contract by the tenant, the landlord must give written notice within 30 days before terminating the lease, except in cases where the tenant's actions directly affect the peaceful co-existence with other tenants, in which case written notice must be given at least 7 days in advance.
– A lease agreement must be made in two copies, and the tenant must keep one copy immediately after signing.
(Excerpt from the article "Lease Agreement Regulation Act of 2025: Differences from the Previous Law" by Pakorn Ounhiransakul, Managing Director, Law & Equity Co., Ltd.)
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This initial advice should help answer the question of what to consider when renting a house. Choosing a rental property that meets your needs requires consideration of several factors, including legal aspects that should not be overlooked, to prevent future rental problems.
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Thank you for the valuable information from DD Property.
