Renting in Dhaka: What to Ask Before You Sign

A good flat can still be a bad rental if the terms are vague. Ask these questions before you agree to anything.
Money
- How much is the advance, and under what conditions is it returned?
- Is the service charge included in the rent? What does it cover?
- How are gas, electricity and water billed: prepaid meter, postpaid or shared?
The flat
- Does water reach the top floors at all hours?
- Is there a gas line, or only cylinders?
- What happens during load-shedding: generator or IPS?
The agreement
Ask for a written tenancy agreement on stamp paper. It should state the rent, the yearly increase, the notice period for both sides and who pays for repairs. Take dated photos of the flat on the day you move in.



