Renting guide
Your first lease in Cambodia: deposits, contracts and utilities explained
A plain-language walk-through of a typical Cambodian residential lease, from viewing to move-out.
By Home Planet Editorial
Most residential leases in Cambodia run for six or twelve months and are written in Khmer and English. Reading one carefully before you sign saves misunderstandings later.
Before you sign
- Check the inventory list room by room and photograph anything damaged
- Confirm who pays for repairs to air-conditioners and water heaters
- Agree on the notice period — usually one month
- Ask for meter readings on move-in day
Getting your deposit back
Deposits are returned after move-out once the final utility bills are settled. Normal wear and tear cannot be deducted. On Home Planet, the move-out inspection and deposit settlement are recorded in the app, so both sides see the same photos and amounts.