Signing a lease in Vietnam is usually quick and informal, which is great until something goes wrong. These five checks take 15 minutes and can save you a lot of money and stress, whether you're renting in Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
Most landlords ask for one or two months' rent as a deposit. Ask clearly, and get it in writing:
Electricity is often the biggest surprise. Many landlords charge their own fixed price per kWh instead of the official EVN bill. Ask for the exact electricity price, the water price, and whether internet, cleaning, parking and building fees are included.
Air conditioners, water heaters, fridges and washing machines break. Agree in advance who pays for repairs and how fast the landlord will fix things. A simple sentence in the contract is enough.
Foreigners staying in Vietnam need to be registered with the local police for their place of stay. Ask your landlord who handles the registration and when. Keep a copy or photo of any confirmation.
On day one, take photos and short videos of every wall, floor, appliance and piece of furniture, plus the electricity and water meters. Send them to your landlord by message so both of you have a dated record.