Vietnam Maintenance Obligations: Landlord and Tenant Responsibilities

In Vietnam, maintenance obligations for rental properties are divided between landlords and tenants under the Civil Code 2015 and the Housing Law 2023. Understanding each party's responsibilities helps prevent disputes and maintain the property's value.

Division of Responsibilities

Landlord Obligations

Major Repairs

Landlords are responsible for all repairs related to:

• Load-bearing structures (walls, columns, beams, floors)
• Main electrical systems
• Main water supply and drainage
• Roofing and waterproofing
• Natural wear and tear of originally provided equipment

Delivery in Proper Condition

Under Article 473 of the Civil Code 2015, landlords must:

• Deliver the property in a usable condition as agreed
• Ensure that basic systems are functioning properly
• Not interfere with the tenant's lawful use of the property

Fire Safety (Housing Law 2023)

Especially for mini-apartments:

• Install fire safety equipment
• Ensure emergency exits meet standards
• Conduct periodic safety inspections

Tenant Obligations

Property Preservation

• Use the property for its designated purpose
• Maintain cleanliness and order
• Notify the landlord promptly when damage is discovered
• Do not make repairs or modifications without landlord consent

Damage Compensation

Tenants must compensate the landlord if they:

• Cause damage beyond normal wear and tear
• Misuse the property resulting in damage
• Fail to report issues in a timely manner, causing further damage

Repair Request Process

1. Tenant notifies — In writing or by message (retain evidence)
2. Landlord inspects — Assesses the actual condition
3. Agreement on solution — Who repairs, who pays, timeline
4. Repairs completed — Within a reasonable timeframe
5. Acceptance — Both parties confirm completion

Best Practices for Landlords

1. Regular inspections — Schedule quarterly or semi-annual property checks
2. Prompt responses — Address repair requests in a timely manner
3. Preventive maintenance — Service equipment before it breaks down
4. Keep records — Document all maintenance activities
5. Clear contracts — Explicitly allocate responsibilities in the lease

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