Here’s a list of taxes and fees to consider when renting property in Taiwan:
1. Monthly rent
- The primary cost, typically due at the start of each month.
2. Security deposit
- Not a tax, but a refundable deposit (1–3 months’ rent).
- Interest on the deposit (1% annually per law) may be subject to income tax if paid by the landlord.
3. First month’s rent
- Paid upfront at lease signing.
4. Utility bills
- Water, electricity, gas, internet, and garbage fees: Often paid separately by the tenant unless specified in the lease
- Meter reading fees: Some landlords charge for initial or final readings
5. Service fees (Agency fees)
- If using a real estate agency, you may pay a commission fee, typically 1 month’s rent
6. Lease registration fee
- For leases longer than 2 years, the contract must be registered with local authorities. The fee is minimal (around NT$300)
7. Cleaning/Repair fees
- Some landlords require tenants to pay for final cleaning or minor repairs before moving out
8. Renewal fees
- When renewing the lease, some landlords charge a small fee (NT$2,000–5,000) or an additional month’s rent
9. Stamp duty
- A small fee (NT$300) for stamping the lease contract. Some landlords may waive this
10. Late payment fees
- Penalties for overdue rent (commonly 5–10% of monthly rent)
11. Deposit feductions
- At lease end, the landlord may deduct funds for:
- Unpaid bills
- Damages beyond normal wear and tear
- Cleaning costs if not met
12. Other potential fees
- Key deposit: Refundable fee (NT$500–2,000) for keys
- Pet fees: Extra deposit or rent if keeping pets
- Parking fees: If parking is included, confirm if it’s free or charged separately
Tax considerations
- No direct "rent tax" for tenants—property taxes are paid by the landlord
Tips
- Negotiate fees: Agency commissions or cleaning costs may be flexible
- Review the lease: Ensure all fees are clearly stated to avoid surprises
- Keep records: Save receipts for payments and deductions
By understanding these costs upfront, you can budget effectively and avoid unexpected expenses.
