Factors to Consider Before Signing a Lease in Cambodia

Finding the right property to rent within Cambodia real estate can be a tedious and jarring process. Since there are a lot of properties for rent in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and more, the amount of good options makes it difficult to decide which one would be the best for you. However, when you have already chosen the property you want and are already talking with the landlord, owner, or manager, here are a few things to consider before you sign the lease.

1. Rental costs

More than the monthly rental payment, there are other rental costs you have to pay as a tenant when living in a rented property. This includes the utility bills from water, electricity, and internet. Most rental properties do not include them in the basic cost of the unit since the bill for these depends on how you use them per month. Other rental costs include maintenance and waste collection.

Make sure that when you’re planning to rent, you include the possible rental cost in your financial computation so you can cross the I’s and dot the T’s. 

2. Inspect the property thoroughly

While most units are in good condition, you still have to thoroughly inspect the property of the unit you want to rent. Check if the windows and doors are closing and opening without problems since your security is important within the unit. Electronics like water heater, light bulbs and television have to be checked as well if they are working. Finally, make sure to see if there are cracks or anything within the property that might be a potential problem for you. Doing a thorough inspection safeguards you from future issues.

3. Possibility of rental negotiation

As a tenant, you always have room for negotiation in a rental agreement. Make sure to take advantage of this so you can get a better deal in your lease that works for you. For example, if you are looking to rent a property for a long period of time like 1 or 2 years, you can negotiate with the landlord to reduce the monthly rent.

Landlords are not always agreeable on this part but you never know so try talking it out with the owner and see if you can get a good deal. 

4. Rental agreement

Since the lease is a binding contract between the landlord and tenant, you have to read it thoroughly and understand all points included. This is important because there are penalties if you breached your contract so make sure to know what you need to avoid doing so you do not violate the terms.

Additionally, if you believe something was not included in the rental agreement, ask the owner to include it since anything that isn’t part of the lease like a verbal contract, are not legally binding. 

5. Photo documentation of the property

Prior to signing the lease, make sure to have a complete photo documentation of everything the unit includes from the appliances to the furniture in it. Not only that, but take photos of the walls, doors, windows, and even floors so you have a copy of how the unit looked before you moved in. This is important since any issues or repairs that arise after the lease has ended could be deducted to your deposit, even if the unit already looked that way before you moved in.