Why can electricity and water costs differ between Thailand rentals?

Answer

Utility costs depend on both usage and the way the property is billed. Air-conditioning use, appliance efficiency, household size and the home's insulation or exposure can materially change electricity consumption. The applicable electricity and water provider and tariff can differ by location, while some condominiums, serviced apartments or landlords bill tenants under terms stated in the lease rather than passing through a public-authority bill unchanged. Before paying a deposit, ask who issues each bill, request the rate or tariff in writing, check whether common-area or service charges are separate, and confirm how meter readings are recorded. Use the current tariff published by the relevant authority as a reference, but rely on the property's written contract and recent sample bills to understand what you would actually pay.