Condo Viewing Checklist: 30 Things to Check Before You Rent

Before the viewing

• Prepare questions about the rent, deposit, minimum lease and utility rates.
• View at the time of day you will be home, such as the evening, to judge noise and light.
• Charge your phone: you will use it for photos, as a torch and to test the signal.

Part 1 · Building and common areas

1. Is the walk from the station or bus stop safe and lit at night?
2. Building access (key cards, security guards) and CCTV.
3. The number of lifts for the number of units, and the morning wait.
4. Parking: how many cars, and is there an extra charge?
5. Pool, gym and their opening hours.
6. Parcel collection: does the building office accept parcels for you?
7. Building rules, e.g. on pets, smoking and guests.

Part 2 · The unit

1. Water stains or leaks on the ceiling, in the corners and under the sink.
2. Mould on bathroom walls, window frames and behind wardrobes.
3. Doors and windows close tightly and lock, and keep out traffic noise.
4. Which way the unit faces: west-facing units get hot in the afternoon.
5. View and privacy: can a building opposite see in?
6. Noise from the road, lifts, the rubbish room or neighbours.
7. Drain smells in the bathroom and kitchen.

Part 3 · Water and electricity

1. Open every tap: check the water pressure and the hot water.
2. Flush the toilet and watch the shower and sink drain.
3. Every power socket works (bring a phone charger to test).
4. Electricity and water rates: official utility rates, or a rate set by the owner?
5. Mobile signal and which internet providers can install in the building.

Part 4 · Furniture and appliances

About 95% of the rentals on DooAsset are fully furnished, so check these carefully.

1. Every air conditioner cools well without dripping; when was it last cleaned?
2. Fridge, washing machine, microwave and hob: switch them on.
3. Mattress, sofa and curtains: condition and cleanliness.
4. How many keys and key cards you will get.
5. Anything to be added or removed before you move in: write it into the lease.

Part 5 · Money and documents

1. Does the rent include the common fee?
2. How many months' deposit, and the terms for getting it back.
3. Minimum lease, renewal, and when the rent may rise.
4. Is the landlord the real owner? Ask for a copy of the condominium title deed.
5. Who pays for which repairs, e.g. air conditioning, water heater and light bulbs.
6. When you can move in, and whether the unit will be cleaned first.

After the viewing

Keep photos and video of every unit you see, note the pros and cons straight away, and compare before you decide. Once you have chosen, continue with How to Rent a Condo in Bangkok: Step by Step.