Your Keys Are in Hand: A Guide to Setting Up Utilities in Your New Chiang Mai Condo

Congratulations! You’ve navigated the purchasing process and are now the proud owner of a condo in beautiful Chiang Mai. It’s an exciting moment, but after the contracts are signed and the keys are in your hand, a very practical question arises: "What now?"

Getting your new home connected with electricity, water, and internet can feel like a confusing hurdle, especially when dealing with a new system and language.

But don't worry. This guide will walk you through the entire process, step-by-step. We'll tell you exactly which documents you need and where to go, making your move-in process as smooth as possible.

1. Electricity: Transferring Your PEA Account

The most important utility to set up is your electricity, which is managed by the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA). In most cases, you won't be setting up a new account, but rather transferring the existing one from the previous owner's name into yours.

You will need to visit your local PEA office to do this in person.

What You'll Need (The Document Checklist):

• Your Passport: Bring the original and have a signed photocopy of your main photo page and visa page.
• Copy of Your Title Deed (Chanote): This is the proof of ownership for your condo.
• Copy of Your Sale and Purchase Agreement: This document supports the transfer of ownership.
• The Previous Owner's Electricity Bill (if possible): This contains the account number and makes the process much faster.
• A Deposit: The PEA requires a small security deposit, which typically ranges from ฿2,000 to ฿5,000 depending on the meter size.

The Process:

1. Locate your nearest PEA office (your real estate agent can tell you which one serves your building).
2. Go to the customer service desk, take a queue number, and explain that you want to change the name on the electricity account for your condo.
3. Submit your documents.
4. Pay the security deposit.
5. The PEA will process the transfer, and the account will now be in your name.

2. Water: The Easiest Setup

You'll be happy to know that setting up your water is significantly simpler. In virtually all condominium buildings, the water supply is managed directly by the building's management, known as the "juristic office."

The Process:

1. Visit your building's juristic office.
2. Inform them you are the new owner of Unit [Your Unit Number].
3. Provide them with a copy of your title deed or sale agreement.
4. They will update their records, and your water bill will simply be delivered to you each month by the building management. There is usually no separate deposit or complicated process required.

3. Internet: Getting Connected to the Digital World

Chiang Mai has excellent, high-speed fiber internet options. The main providers offer competitive packages, and the choice often comes down to promotions available in your specific building.

The Top Providers:

• AIS Fibre: Often praised for its high-speed packages and reliable service.
• 3BB: A popular choice known for good value and wide coverage.
• True Online: Often bundles internet packages with cable TV and mobile phone promotions.

What You'll Need:

• Your Passport: Original and a signed photocopy.
• Proof of Address: This can be your Sale and Purchase Agreement or a copy of your title deed.

The Process:

1. Visit a service center or booth for your chosen provider (they are in every major shopping mall, like Central Festival or Maya Mall).
2. Choose your internet package.
3. Provide your documents and schedule an installation appointment.
4. An installation team will come to your condo on the scheduled day to set up your router.

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Your Quick-Reference Checklist

‍Pro-Tips for a Smooth Setup

• Start the Internet Process Early: It can sometimes take a week or more to get an installation appointment, so it's a good idea to sign up for your internet package as soon as you have your keys.
• Consider Assistance for the PEA Visit: While many PEA staff are helpful, the process is primarily in Thai. To ensure a smooth visit, consider asking your real estate agent for assistance or hiring a translator for the hour it takes.

Setting up utilities is the final step in making your new condo truly feel like home. By following this guide, you can handle the process with confidence and start enjoying your new life in Chiang Mai even faster.

Need a helping hand? If you're a client of Chiang Mai Properties, our service doesn't end when the sale is complete. Assisting with utility setup is a core part of the after-sales support we are proud to offer.

Contact us for personalized assistance.