Nha Trang — the coastal gem of Vietnam — attracts a growing number of residents each year, from students and office workers to expats and digital nomads.
But one thing many renters overlook is the rental contract. A poorly written or unclear contract can easily lead to disputes over deposits, damaged furniture, or early termination penalties.

This article highlights 5 essential points to check before signing a rental contract in Nha Trang, whether you plan a short or long stay.

🧾 1. Verify the landlord’s ownership and authority

Before signing anything, make sure the landlord is the legal property owner or has the proper authorization to lease the unit.

Ask to see:

The Land Use Certificate (also known as the “red book” or “pink book”)
The landlord’s ID (Citizen Card or Passport)
A notarized Power of Attorney if you’re dealing with an agent or middleman

✅ Pro Tip:
You can verify ownership at the local Ward People’s Committee (UBND phường) to ensure the property isn’t mortgaged or under dispute.

💰 2. Security deposit and refund terms

Deposit issues are the most common source of conflict between landlords and tenants in Nha Trang.

Usually, landlords ask for one to two months’ rent as a deposit. Make sure the contract clearly states:

The exact deposit amount
When it will be refunded (immediately upon check-out or within a set number of days)
Specific conditions where the deposit will be partially or fully withheld (damages, early termination, unpaid bills, etc.)

⚠️ Note:
Never transfer a deposit before signing the written contract or before inspecting the property in person.

🛋️ 3. Furniture inventory and handover condition

For furnished apartments — which are very common in Nha Trang — make sure you have a detailed handover checklist:

List every piece of furniture and appliance (bed, sofa, air conditioner, fridge, washing machine, etc.)
Record the condition of each item (good, worn, damaged)
Take photos or videos as evidence and share with the landlord via Zalo or email

✅ Tip:
Use a downloadable Rental Property Handover Form (Word/PDF) — just fill in your details and have both parties sign.

📅 4. Contract duration and early termination clause

Be clear about how long you plan to stay. Some landlords prefer a minimum 12-month lease, while tenants may only need 3–6 months.

Clarify the following:

Lease term and start date
Required notice period before moving out (commonly 30 days)
Responsibility for finding a replacement tenant if you leave early

⚖️ For expats:
Ask for a bilingual (English–Vietnamese) contract to ensure clarity in legal and administrative matters like temporary residence registration.

💡 5. Extra costs and utility fees

Many tenants focus only on the rent price but forget about hidden or recurring costs such as:

Electricity and water (charged at residential or commercial rates?)
Internet, trash collection, parking fees
Management or cleaning services

📌 Make sure the contract states details like:

“Electricity charged at government rate: 3,800 VND/kWh.
Water: 20,000 VND/m³.
Management fee: 100,000 VND/month.”

🧠 Summary

A clear, well-written rental contract helps you avoid misunderstandings and protect both parties’ rights.
Don’t rush through the paperwork — read every clause, take photos during handover, and confirm all payments in writing.

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Rental Contracts in Nha Trang: 5 Key Things You Should Know