Accommodation in Laos

Accommodation in Laos is varied, with a wide range of options to suit every preference. With a low cost of living and a relaxed lifestyle, Laos is an attractive destination for expats looking for something a little off the beaten track.

The vast majority of expats in Laos choose to rent their accommodation. The rental market for suitable expat accommodation in Laos is quite competitive, however, so it is important to start the accommodation search early.

Types of accommodation in Laos

There is a vast rental market in Laos. From French villas to modern serviced apartments and standard flats, expats are likely to find something to suit their needs. 

While short-term travellers and students tend to opt for furnished or serviced flats, many expats in Laos may be surprised to find that three- to five-bedroom houses with extensive gardens are also quite affordable.

Furnished and unfurnished

Houses in Laos are often partially furnished, including a stove and refrigerator, beds, lounge and dining furniture and possibly a television. Some properties include closets, outdoor furniture, dishwashing and laundry machines, and water pumps and tanks.

Some negotiating between landlord and tenant is expected during the application process, and furniture and fittings may be added, removed or swapped. When extra furniture is needed, many expats prefer to import higher-end furniture from Thailand or Vietnam over buying from local furniture shops.

Serviced apartments

Serviced apartments marketed to expats are typically fully furnished, including bedding, kitchen utensils and silverware. A range of amenities comes standard with serviced apartments, including housekeeping, laundry and room service. They are also fully furnished, which makes the move-in process much easier. Serviced apartments are a bit more expensive compared to regular apartments, but they offer more convenience and comfort.

Short lets

Short lets are ideal as a stopover for expats while they look for something more permanent. Cheaper than hotels and better equipped for day-to-day life, short-term accommodation can most commonly be found in popular tourist destinations like Vientiane, Luang Prabang, and Vang Vieng.

Finding accommodation in Laos

Expats are most likely to find suitable accommodation in Vientiane, Luang Prabang or the other provincial capitals. Real estate agents can help with finding accommodation, arranging visits, and negotiating terms, and their fee usually comes from the landlord.

Another option for new expats is to ask around the expat community, either in person or on social media. Word of mouth can help expats find good accommodation and trustworthy landlords.

Renting accommodation in Laos

Making an application

In order to make a rental application, expats in Laos will need their passport, visa/work permit and stay permit. They may need to show proof of employment, if applicable, and will likely need to submit a 'holding deposit'.

Deposits

Potential renters submit a holding deposit worth one month's rent along with their application, with the idea being that this sum of money shows the prospective tenant is serious about their application. Should the application go through, this deposit is set against the first month's rent. 

The term "holding deposit" is a bit of a misnomer because the landlord can still choose to rent the property to another applicant instead, in which case the first applicant's deposit will be refunded. On the other hand, if it is the applicant who pulls out after submitting their deposit, the landlord does not have to refund it unless there is a specific clause in the lease agreement stating otherwise.

A security deposit is also usually required if rent is paid monthly. In Laos, it is quite common to pay six months or a year's worth of rent in advance, in which case there is no security deposit. Paying more months of rent up front also opens space for tenants to negotiate for lower total rent or more furnishings.

Deposits and rent are typically paid in cash.

Signing a lease

Accommodation is generally rented privately between landlord and tenant, although there are a number of estate agencies that can help tenants cover all the bases and cross the language barrier. This is essential because there are few laws governing rental arrangements, and expats will need to ensure their rental contracts are comprehensive. The lease will likely be in Lao, so they may need an interpreter.

Lease agreements in Laos should include rental amounts and payment schedule, whether security and holding deposits are required, the term of the lease (one year, renewable is standard), conditions of termination, and acceptable use of the premises. Other items include what each party's obligations are, and what warranties and insurance are applicable.

Utilities

Utility bills can include water, electricity, rubbish disposal, as well as TV, internet, and gas. The cost of basic utilities is relatively low, and these are generally factored into the monthly rent, except electricity, which is paid separately. Internet and mobile phone services also come separately and can be pricey, so it is best to shop around to find the best deal.