The Cost of Maintaining Property in Phuket

Maintenance costs for property in Phuket can be broadly divided into the following categories:

1. Maintenance Fee
   A maintenance fee covers general expenses for the upkeep of a complex. This typically includes security, garbage collection, parking, and pool cleaning. It’s akin to a regular “utility fee,” but with a unique feature: property owners pay this fee annually upfront. For secondary market purchases, this fee is often already covered for the remainder of the year by the previous owner.

2. Utility Bills

   • Water: Costs range from $0.6 to $0.9 per cubic meter.
   • Electricity: Rates are approximately $0.15 per kWh.
     Total costs vary depending on individual usage, with air conditioning being a major contributor to higher bills.

3. Internet and Communication
   Setting up internet and TV services costs around $130 initially, with monthly subscription fees between $20 and $30.

4. Insurance
   Property insurance is optional and depends on the owner’s preference. Costs vary but are typically modest.

5. Additional Services for Villas

   • Pool Cleaning: Costs around $15 per session, totaling $120 per month for twice-weekly cleaning.
   • Gardening: Ranges from $9 to $12 per visit, with total monthly costs between $25 and $100 depending on the season.
   • Chef Services: A local chef specializing in Thai cuisine costs $700 to $1,000 per month, with higher rates for chefs trained in European cuisine.
   • Housekeeping: Prices average $30 to $45 per session. Premium and luxury villas often require more frequent cleaning, such as two sessions weekly or daily service.

Calculating Apartment Maintenance Costs

Maintaining an apartment is generally more affordable than a villa due to shared costs for amenities like parking, pools, and common area upkeep.

Maintenance Fee for Apartments

• Studios or small apartments: $0.9 to $1.2 per square meter.
• Mid-range apartments: $1.2 to $1.8 per square meter.
• Premium apartments: $2.4 to $3 per square meter.

For mid-range apartments, annual maintenance fees (excluding insurance and utilities) average around $700 to $800.

Utility Bills for Apartments

Utility costs depend on usage. For a family of three:

• Electricity (excluding air conditioning): Around 250-300 kWh, or $45 per month.
• Air conditioning: Adds approximately $80 per month if used frequently.

Insurance for Apartments

Annual insurance costs range from $60 to $150, depending on the coverage.

Calculating Villa Maintenance Costs

Villas, whether standalone or part of a complex, incur higher maintenance costs. Additional services like pool cleaning and gardening significantly influence expenses.

Maintenance Fee for Villas

• Ranges from $3 to $12 per square meter, translating to $3,000–$5,000 annually for a villa with 2-3 bedrooms.

Utility Bills for Villas

Utility costs are higher due to larger areas requiring lighting, air conditioning, and water for pools and gardens.

Insurance for Villas

Annual insurance costs range from $300 to $600.

Additional Monthly Costs for Villas

• Internet and TV: $40.
• Gardening: $25.
• Housekeeping: $50.
• Pool Cleaning: $120.
• Chef Services: $150.

Total additional monthly costs: $385, or $4,620 annually.

Key Takeaways

1. Maintenance Fees: These vary by property type and class, with payments made annually in advance.
2. Utility Bills: Monthly expenses primarily depend on air conditioning usage.
3. Insurance: Optional but recommended for protection against fire, flooding, and other damages.
4. Villas vs. Apartments: Maintaining a villa is more expensive, costing $3,000–$5,000 annually, compared to $500–$900 for apartments.

While villas come with higher costs, they offer unmatched luxury, prestige, and comfort. If you’re considering purchasing property in Phuket, our team can help you calculate maintenance costs and answer any questions you have.

Enjoy the ultimate island lifestyle with your very own villa or apartment in Phuket!