A Foreigner’s Simple Guide to Renting in Taiwan I: Understanding the Fees(Adapted from the MOI’s Guide)

This article explains the various fees you will encounter when renting a house in Taiwan, from the initial earnest money to daily utility fees.

1. Earnest Money

When the lessee is willing to rent and the lessor is also willing to lease, the lessor will charge a certain amount of earnest money in advance to guarantee that both parties will sign the lease agreement.

• Timing of payments:

  After house viewing and before signing the lease.

• Payment amount:

  There are no statutory restrictions, but it is suggested that the earnest money not exceed one-third of one month’s rent.

• Reminders for payment:

  Always keep the proof of payment. After signing the lease agreement, the earnest money will turn into part of the rent or security deposit.

Refund Rules for Earnest Money

• If the Lessee (you) changes his/her mind:

  The Lessor is entitled to keep the earnest money.

• If the Lessor (landlord) changes his/her mind:

  The Lessor must return the earnest money to the Lessee and also compensate the Lessee with an amount equal to the earnest money.

2. Security Deposit

This is money that lessees pre-pay as collateral for compensation for damaged rental housing and duties arising from dealing with leftover things.

• Timing of payments:

  Upon signing the lease agreement.

• Payment amount:

  Shall not exceed the sum of 2 months’ rent.

• Reminders:

  The amount received and the date of returning the deposit should be specified in the lease agreement.

3. Rents

Rent is the payment made by the lessee to the lessor for using the property during the lease period.

• Payment methods:

  Rent is usually paid periodically (e.g., monthly or quarterly) via cash or wire transfer.

• Reminders:

  Within the lease term, the Lessor shall not increase the rent at will. If rent is unpaid for 2 months and the lessee fails to pay after notices, the Lessor may terminate the lease agreement.

4. Utility Fees

These can include water, electricity, gas, internet, and property management fees.

• Responsibility for payment:

  The lease agreement shall specify who shall bear each expense, the amount, and the payment methods.

• Electricity Fee Cap:

  The electricity fee is usually calculated by kilowatt-hours (kWh) used but shall not exceed the highest level stated by the Taiwan Power Company. For summer (June to September), it shall be NT$6.41/kWh;forotherseasons,itshallbeNT$5.03/kWh.

※The content and image are adapted from the Ministry of the Interior‘s Guide.