Rent in Cambodia: Housing and Renting Guide

Rent in Cambodia is an accessible process for expats, with options ranging from budget apartments to luxury condos. This guide provides practical steps to find a rental, understand costs, and secure a lease, tailored for newcomers to Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and beyond.

How to Rent in Cambodia

1. Methods to Find Cambodia Rentals

• Online Platforms: Browse listings on Khmer24, Realestate.com.kh, and Facebook groups like “Phnom Penh Housing” or “Siem Reap Expats.” These platforms offer photos, prices, and contact details.
• Real Estate Agents: Agencies like IPS Cambodia, CBRE, or Knight Frank specialize in expat-friendly rentals, especially in Phnom Penh’s BKK1 or Riverside areas. Agent fees are typically one month’s rent, often paid by the landlord.
• Direct Search: Spot “For Rent” signs (Khmer: ជួល, choul) on gates or balconies. Ride a motorbike or walk through neighborhoods to find unlisted properties, ideally at dusk to assess noise and ambiance.
• Local Connections: Ask colleagues, friends, or Khmer contacts for leads. Landlords may offer better deals through personal referrals.

2. Choosing a Location

• Phnom Penh:
  • BKK1: Upscale, central, $300-$1,500/month.
  • Toul Tom Poung (Russian Market): Affordable, vibrant, $200-$800/month.
  • Riverside: Scenic, expat-heavy, $400-$2,000/month.
• Siem Reap: Near Pub Street ($150-$500/month) or quieter suburbs ($100-$300/month).
• Sihanoukville: Coastal rentals range from $200-$1,000/month, with modern condos pricier.
• Kampot: Small up-and-coming coastal town, popular with Western expats, $150-$600/month for apartments or houses.

Tip: Visit areas at different times to check for noise (e.g., karaoke, roosters, or traffic). Avoid properties near bars or workshops.

Costs of Renting in Cambodia

• Rent:
  • Studios/small apartments: $150-$400/month.
  • Modern condos: $400-$2,000/month.
  • Villas/houses: $800-$5,000/month.
• Deposits: 1-2 months’ rent, refundable (minus damages). Some landlords accept smaller deposits for longer leases.
• Utilities:
  • Electricity: $0.15-$0.35/kWh, $30-$100/month. Confirm EDC rates to avoid surcharges.
  • Water: $5-$15/month at municipal rates.
  • Internet: $10-$30/month (100 Mbps Wi-Fi is common).
  • Garbage: $1-$5/month.
• Agent Fees: If using an agent, tenants may pay 50%-100% of one month’s rent, though landlords often cover this.
• Additional Costs: Parking ($5-$50/month), gym/pool access ($20-$100/month in condos), or cleaning services ($20-$50/month).

Recommended Real Estate Agents & Companies in Phnom Penh

What to Look for in a Rental

When viewing properties, prioritize these features:

• Essentials:
  • Reliable electricity.
  • Consistent water supply (test pressure at peak times, 6-8 AM or 6-8 PM).
  • Secure parking for motos ($5-$10/month) or cars ($20-$50/month).
• Comfort:
  • Air conditioning (essential in hot seasons; negotiate installation, ~$400-$600).
  • Western-style toilet and shower (hot water heaters cost ~$100).
• Furnishings:
  • Basic rentals may include a bed, fridge, or stove. Luxury units often come fully furnished.
  • Confirm what’s included; unfurnished units allow personalization but require upfront costs.
• Location:
  • Avoid west-facing units (hot afternoons) or properties near noisy venues.
  • Check proximity to markets, schools, or workplaces.
• Amenities:
  • High-speed internet ($15-$30/month).
  • Access to a balcony, rooftop, or shared pool/gym (common in condos).

Tip: Take discreet photos of properties and signs to compare options later. Note addresses and phone numbers from “For Rent” signs.

Signing a Lease

A clear lease agreement protects both parties. Ensure these terms are included:

• Pricing:
  • Electricity at EDC rates (no landlord markups; ~$0.25/kWh).
  • Water and garbage at municipal rates.
  • Sub-metered utilities with tenant access to readings (meters cost ~$20).
• Maintenance:
  • Landlord covers major repairs (wiring, plumbing, aircon, leaks).
  • Tenant handles minor fixes (light bulbs, accidental damage).
• Lease Terms:
  • Standard lease: 6-12 months. Short-term rentals (1-3 months) are pricier.
  • One month’s notice before moving out, with deposit covering the final month’s rent.
  • Owner access by appointment only.
• Security:
  • Secure bike/car parking (use disk locks or chains; bike insurance is recommended).
• Documentation:
  • Get an English lease copy, signed and thumb-printed by the landlord.
  • Have a Khmer friend or agent review the Khmer version for discrepancies.

Warning: If prices increase during negotiations or visits, walk away. Avoid verbal agreements; insist on written terms.

Practical Tips for Cambodia Rentals

• Negotiate: Bargain on rent, deposits, or furnishings (e.g., aircon or furniture). Long-term leases may lower costs.
• Local Help: A Khmer friend or colleague can call landlords to confirm prices and avoid “foreigner” markups.
• Timing: Peak rental seasons (October-February) have more listings but higher competition. Off-season (May-August) may yield better deals.
• Cultural Respect: Build rapport with landlords by respecting local norms (e.g., avoid loud parties or disruptive behavior).
• Safety Checks: Inspect for mold, leaks, or faulty wiring. Test appliances and faucets during viewings.
• Short-Term Options: For new arrivals, consider guesthouses or Airbnb ($10-$50/night) while searching for a long-term rental.