Vietnam Commercial Security Deposits: Regulations and Market Practices

Commercial security deposits in Vietnam are governed entirely by the principle of freedom of contract. There is no statutory cap, and deposit amounts are typically significantly higher than in residential leases.

Disclaimer: This guide provides general legal information for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult a licensed attorney in Vietnam for guidance specific to your situation. Information last verified: March 2026.

Typical Commercial Deposit Amounts

Essential Lease Provisions

Commercial lease agreements must clearly specify:

1. Deposit amount — Exact sum in VND
2. Interest on deposit — Whether the deposit earns interest
3. Deposit increases — Whether the deposit adjusts when rent increases
4. Return timeline — Typically 30-90 days after lease termination
5. Permitted deductions — Repairs, unpaid rent, contract breaches
6. Bank guarantee option — Whether a bank guarantee may substitute for a cash deposit

Bank Guarantees

In major commercial transactions, tenants may offer a bank guarantee instead of a cash deposit:

• A bank issues a standby letter of credit to the landlord
• The landlord can claim against the guarantee if the tenant breaches
• Common for Grade A offices and large retail spaces
• Preferred by multinational tenants

Best Practices

1. Detailed provisions — Spell out all deposit conditions clearly
2. Condition survey — Document property condition at handover
3. Insurance requirement — Require tenant property insurance
4. Credit assessment — Evaluate the tenant's financial capacity before signing

How Landager Helps

Landager helps track commercial security deposits, manage return timelines, and store handover documentation — ensuring professional management at every stage.

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