Renting long term on Samui: how it really works

The first time I rented here, I almost signed a contract without asking about electricity. It turned out the owner charged far more per unit than the government rate. With air conditioning running in April, that is a real difference in your monthly costs.

Here is what I tell every friend who moves here:

1. Decide the area first

Prices and lifestyle change a lot between Chaweng and Maenam.

2. Use an agency for 3 months and longer

On Airbnb you pay a premium for flexibility. Agencies have homes that never appear on booking sites, and on long-term rentals the owner usually pays the agency fee. Confirm this with the agency.

3. Ask about the electricity and water rate

Ask: "Government rate or owner rate, and how much per unit?"

4. Check internet before you sign

Ask for a speed test video or test it yourself during the viewing.

5. Deposit and contract

Usually 1 to 2 months of deposit. Get a written contract, take photos of everything when you move in, and agree on how and when the deposit comes back.

6. Cleaning, pool and garden

Ask what is included and how often.

7. Rainy season check

Ask if the road or driveway floods.

A word on short rentals: renting a home for less than 30 days needs a hotel licence under Thai law, and nightly condo rentals are generally not allowed. That's another reason why monthly and yearly contracts through agencies are the safer route for longer stays.