Naphenphat Jamphian LAW OFFICE IN THAILAND
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Renting in Thailand: When Your Deposit Is Not Returned

AI-generated fictional scene: Renting in Thailand: When Your Deposit Is Not Returned

AI-generated illustration. The people and situation are fictional, not actual clients.

General legal information, not advice for a specific case. Check current law and the facts of your situation before acting.

If a landlord keeps your entire deposit, start with records rather than an argument over the phone. I’m Attorney Nok, and I would compare the lease, the condition of the room and the deductions claimed.

Imagine Anna moving out of a Bangkok apartment after a year. She photographed the room and utility meters when handing back the keys. Later the landlord says the floor is scratched but sends no itemised cost or photographs.

Ask for a written breakdown of each deduction and supporting evidence. Compare move-in and move-out photos, receipts, the lease and handover messages. If you signed both Thai and English versions, examine the actual documents and agreed terms rather than assuming an informal translation controls.

Consumer rules for residential rental businesses may apply only where the landlord meets the relevant criteria; they do not automatically govern every private lease. If discussions fail, ask the OCPB about complaint options and get advice on any applicable deadlines.

Source: OCPB: Residential rental agreements ↗