Move-In Day Checklist for a Rented Condo in Bangkok

Key-day checklist

Inspect with the owner

1. Walk through every room with the owner or agent.
2. Photograph and film everything, including existing marks, stains and every piece of furniture, and send them to the owner by chat.
3. Record the electricity and water meter readings and photograph the dials.
4. Sign the inventory attached to the lease; add anything broken or missing before you sign.

Keys and building access

1. Count the unit keys, mailbox key and key cards against the list.
2. Try the key cards on the building door, lifts and car park.
3. If the door uses a code, have it changed.

Appliances

1. Switch on every air conditioner, the fridge, washing machine, water heater and hob.
2. Test the sockets, light switches and bulbs.
3. Find the fuse box and the water shut-off valve in the unit.

The building office (juristic person)

1. Register as a resident; many buildings ask for a copy of the lease and your ID card or passport.
2. Get a parking card or sticker if you have a car.
3. Ask about the building rules: moving hours, the service lift, rubbish and parcels.
4. Save the numbers of the building office and the maintenance team.

Set up

1. Book the internet installation; ask the building office which providers are wired in.
2. Agree with the owner how to pay electricity and water: directly, or through the owner.
3. Save the rent account number and due date in your phone.

For foreigners

1. Remind the owner to file the TM30 within 24 hours and ask for a copy of the receipt: see Renting a Condo in Bangkok as a Foreigner.

Keep all the evidence in one place

Make a folder on your phone or in the cloud for the lease, receipts, move-in photos and meter readings. This is your key evidence when you ask for the deposit back: see Getting Your Condo Deposit Back in Bangkok.