How the deposit and payment work when renting a villa in Bali

Short answer. Bali villa rent is paid for the length of stay, usually monthly or for the whole period, plus a refundable deposit. The deposit is returned after check-out if the villa is left in the same condition and there are no unpaid utilities. The exact amount, the payment schedule and the refund terms are put in the contract before any money changes hands.

Deposit size

The deposit is usually one monthly rate or a part of it, depending on the property and the term. For a short stay it is smaller; for a long-term rental with pets or children owners often ask for more. We confirm the exact figure for the specific villa in advance, so it does not appear unexpectedly on the day you move in.

The order of payments

1. We agree the property, the term and the price, and confirm availability with the owner.
2. The contract sets the price, the term, the deposit, what the rent includes and who pays the utilities.
3. Payment happens before check-in: by transfer or in cash, and at some villas by card. The method depends on the owner, so it is worth establishing straight away rather than on arrival day.
4. After that the rent is paid on schedule: monthly or for the whole period, as written in the contract.

When the deposit is returned

The deposit is returned after check-out and an inspection of the villa. Deductions cover only what is explicitly listed: unpaid utilities, damage beyond normal wear, management company fines. Normal wear, the working of air conditioners and the pool, replacement of bulbs and consumables are not deducted.

To keep the refund smooth we record the condition of the villa and the meter readings together at check-in, and do the same at check-out. That way both sides are looking at the same picture.

Commission and what the price includes

Our prices already include the agency commission; it is not added on top. What the rent covers for a specific villa is stated on its page: usually the pool, cleaning, internet and a gardener, while electricity and water are often metered. More on that in the separate answer about what a villa rental includes.

Villas from this guide

Brand New Villa with Panoramic Jungle ViewsUbud · Price on requestDesigner Villa in Green UbudUbud · $ 2 380Art Villa in the Heart of SeminyakSeminyak · $ 3 300