Electricity, water and internet are three fixed monthly costs, and a common source of disputes between tenants and landlords. This post helps you ask the right questions, record meter readings properly and know where to sign up. Prices change over time, so look up the current tariffs and quotes before you decide.
Electricity
Two common ways of billing
- At the state tiered rate: the landlord splits the actual electricity bill, or each room has its own meter.
- At a rate set by the landlord: one flat price per kWh, usually higher than the lower tiers.
The current rules on electricity prices for tenants are issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the electricity sector. Look up the latest document or ask the local power company to find out when tenants are entitled to the residential rate, and raise it clearly with the landlord when you agree on the rental.
Meter readings and checking the meter
- Take a photo of the meter on the day you move in, with the reading visible.
- Confirm that the meter is only for your room and not shared.
- Note the monthly reading date and how you will receive the bill.
Water
- Ask who supplies the water and how it is billed: by a separate meter or a flat rate per person.
- If you rent a whole house, ask the landlord whether the water contract needs to be moved into your name.
- Take a photo of the water meter on the day you move in.
Internet
- Before renting, ask which providers already have a cable line into the building or rooming house.
- Contact the main providers directly for a quote at the time of installation: monthly fee, speed, installation fee, minimum term and cancellation fee.
- Short-term rental: ask for a no-contract plan, or use mobile data and café wifi at first.
- Check where the modem will go before installation so the signal covers the whole room.
Rubbish, parking and service fees
- Rubbish and cleaning fee: per room or per person.
- Parking: whether it is free, and whether it is charged monthly or per use.
- Apartment building or rooming house service fee: what it covers.
Make a monthly cost table
Before paying a deposit, make a table with: rent, estimated electricity, water, internet, rubbish, parking, service fee. Add them up to know the real total cost. See also the monthly cost of living in Da Nang.
Frequently asked questions
My landlord charges 4,000 VND per kWh. Is that right?
That price is set by the landlord and may be higher than the state tiered rate. Look up the current rules on electricity prices for tenants and agree on it clearly in the contract.
Can I get internet installed on a short-term rental?
It depends on the provider and the contract. Ask directly about no-contract plans and installation fees.
See also: rent prices by area, viewing checklist.