Asked by a buyer looking at villas
“Is a 30-year lease on a house safe? The seller says it renews for another 30.”
My answerShane Ruddle, 20+ years in PattayaThe 30 years are well protected. The renewal promise is the part I wouldn't count on.
A lease of up to 30 years is registered on the back of the title deed, the Chanote. For those 30 years you have unrestricted use of the property, and the lease can be inherited and transferred.
You'll often hear about options to renew for a further 30, or 60, years. I wouldn't count on them. Price it as if you're getting 30 years and nothing more.
The biggest risk with houses is bad advice: years later people find the seller never really owned it, or there was a debt against it. Get a second opinion, even on a lawyer's advice.
Up to date as of November 2026. Rules in Thailand change often, so check the current position before you act.
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