Service and utility charges in Thailand on Phuket Island

Service and utility charges in Thailand on Phuket Island

Service and utility charges on Phuket Island, one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations, cover a wide range of services. This includes payments for electricity, water, internet and other services that are important to both locals and the large number of foreign visitors and expats living on the island.

Electricity

In Phuket, as in the rest of Thailand, the main supplier of electricity is the Provincial Electricity Company (PEA). The cost of electricity depends on the amount of consumption, and rates can be higher in areas of high demand, especially in popular tourist areas. Electricity bills can be substantial, especially during the hot season when air conditioners are running at full capacity.

Water

The water supply in Phuket is managed by local water utilities, and the cost of water is generally lower than in many other countries. However, during the dry season when water levels in the reservoirs drop, water shortages can be a problem, leading to water supply restrictions at times. During such periods, water prices may increase.

Gas

For the most part, Phuket residents use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for cooking. Gas is usually supplied in cylinders, which can be purchased or refilled at numerous outlets around the island. Gas prices are relatively stable but are dependent on world oil prices.

Internet and telecommunications

Broadband internet and cell phone service from a variety of providers is available in Phuket. The cost and quality of internet services can vary depending on the region and the package chosen. High-speed internet services are usually available in tourist areas, which is attractive to expats and tourists.

Utility management and payment

Utility payments in Phuket can be managed through online services or mobile apps offered by most banks and financial institutions. Many companies offer the option of automatic bill payment, which is convenient for permanent residents and property owners located outside Thailand.

These services play an important role in ensuring a comfortable and functional life on the island, affecting the quality of life for both locals and visitors to Phuket.

Who and where to pay in case of renting/purchasing

When renting or buying a property in Phuket, the responsibility for paying utilities can vary depending on the terms of the contract. Here are the main points to consider:

Renting a property

Electricity and water: Usually tenants pay the electricity and water bills. These bills can be issued directly to the tenant or to the landlord, who then charges the tenant. It is important to clarify these details before signing a lease.

Gas: If bottled gas is used for cooking, the tenant usually buys or refills the cylinders themselves.

Internet and TV: Connection and subscription fees are usually the responsibility of the tenant unless otherwise specified in the contract. Sometimes landlords offer properties with services already connected and paid for, which may be included in the rent.

Purchase of real estate

Electricity and Water: When you buy a property, the new owner must transfer the utilities into your name. This includes contacting the local water and electricity companies to register the bills.

Gas: Buyers who use gas must make their own arrangements to purchase or refill gas cylinders.

Internet and TV: New owners must contract with internet and cable TV providers if the previous owner did not provide a long-term plan that can be renegotiated.

Total maintenance costs

In the case of apartment complexes, there is often a fee to maintain common areas and services such as pools, fitness centers, security and gardening. These fees are usually paid by the property owners, whether they rent out their property or live in it themselves.

When renting or buying, it is important to clearly understand all terms and conditions related to utilities and maintenance to avoid misunderstandings and additional costs in the future.

Utility bills

Electricity: The average electricity bill can range from 1,000 to 4,000 baht per month. The use of air conditioners increases the costs significantly, especially during the hot months.

Water: The water bill usually ranges from 200 to 500 baht per month, depending on consumption.

Gas: The cost of cooking gas (if cylinders are used) can be around 200 to 300 baht per cylinder, depending on the frequency of use.

Internet and Cable TV: The cost can range from 700 to 2,000 baht per month, depending on the package and provider selected.

Service Charge

Service charge in Phuket apartment complexes, which includes maintenance of public areas, swimming pool, fitness center and security, usually ranges from 30 to 70 baht per square meter per month. For an average 70 square meter apartment, this can range from 2,100 to 4,900 baht per month.

These figures can vary greatly depending on the level of services provided and the location of the complex. In luxury complexes with premium services, the service charge may be higher.

Overview

The total monthly utility and service charge for a standard apartment in Phuket can therefore range from around 4,000 to 10,000 baht per month, depending on factors such as lifestyle, apartment size and level of services. This is important to consider when planning a budget for living or vacationing on the island.