Udon thani: "Supamas" orders the Consumer Protection Board to strictly inspect rental businesses to protect working people and students from being exploited.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and Minister overseeing the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), led an inspection of rental businesses in the Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani Province. This initiative follows a previous inspection in Bangkok's Ramkhamhaeng area, aiming to address unfair practices in rental agreements. The inspection was supported by the Udon Thani Provincial Office, Udon Thani Municipality, and other local authorities, reflecting Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's policy on economic well-being and consumer protection.
Ms. Supamas emphasized concerns regarding high utility charges and unclear contract terms, which affect working people, students, and low-income earners. The Consumer Protection Board has resolved numerous complaints, ensuring compensation for affected consumers. Proactive measures, such as on-site inspections and business education, are crucial to preventing future issues.
'The Prime Minister is concerned about the people, especially workers, students, and low-income earners, because rent, water, electricity bills, and security deposits are significant monthly burdens. Therefore, I have expanded the inspection efforts from Bangkok to Udon Thani province to ensure that both businesses and tenants understand their rights, responsibilities, and laws,' Ms. Supamas said.
Ms. Supamas highlighted the Committee on Contracts' regulation designating residential building rental businesses as controlled contract businesses under the Act of 2025. This regulation mandates clear rental agreements in Thai, fair utility charges, and timely return of security deposits. Violations can lead to imprisonment, fines, or both.
Ms. Supamas clarified the distinction between apartments and condominiums, with the former falling under CPB's contract control regulations. She stressed the need for transparent contracts regarding additional fees, preventing consumer disadvantage.
'I have instructed the Consumer Protection Board to proceed with a rigorous and continuous investigation into this matter, not only in Bangkok or Udon Thani, but also expanding to other areas nationwide,' Ms. Supamas stated. Tenants are urged to review contracts and billing methods carefully and report any exploitation via the OCPB hotline or other channels.