7 Common Mistakes Expats Make When Hiring Home Services

Moving to a bustling city like Bangkok can be an exhilarating adventure for expats, especially with its vibrant culture, affordable lifestyle, and modern conveniences. However, navigating the world of home services—whether it’s hiring cleaners, plumbers, or electricians—can trip up even the savviest newcomers. As a cleaning company that’s been helping expats settle into Bangkok for years, we’ve seen the same missteps happen time and again. Here’s a rundown of seven common mistakes expats make when hiring home services, along with tips to avoid them and keep your home running smoothly.

1. Not Researching Local Pricing Norms

Bangkok’s cost of living is generally lower than in Western cities, but that doesn’t mean every service is a bargain. Many expats assume they’re getting a fair deal without checking what’s standard. For instance, hiring a cleaner for your condo in might cost depending on the scope. Without knowing this, you might overpay—or worse, insult a provider by haggling too aggressively

2. Overlooking the Language Barrier

While English is common in tourist hubs, many local service providers speak limited English. Expats often book someone without confirming communication channels, leading to misunderstandings about tasks or timing. When we onboard clients, we make sure instructions are clear—sometimes even using translated checklists. If you’re hiring independently, consider using a translation app or asking a Thai-speaking friend to assist during the initial setup.

3. Failing to Verify Credentials

Bangkok’s informal economy means plenty of freelancers offer home services, but not all are reliable or skilled. Expats sometimes hire based on a flyer or a quick online ad without checking reviews or references. For cleaning, look for companies with a track record—ours, for example, vets staff thoroughly and trains them to handle high-end homes. If you’re going solo, ask for recommendations from your building management or expat groups on Facebook. A little due diligence saves headaches later.

4. Skipping Written Agreements

In Thailand, where business can feel more relational, skipping written agreements is a common trap. Without a clear scope—like how often your cleaner will tackle the balcony or whether supplies are included—you might end up disappointed. Many expats assume a verbal deal is enough, but that can lead to confusion. We always provide a detailed service plan for our clients, and you should too. Even a simple text exchange outlining expectations can prevent disputes.

5. Ignoring Cultural Differences in Service Expectations

Thai workers often prioritize politeness and flexibility over rigid schedules, which can clash with Western preferences for punctuality. Expats might get frustrated when a handyman shows up late or doesn’t finish a job in one go. Understanding this laid-back approach helps—build in buffer time and be explicit about deadlines. Our team bridges this gap by sticking to strict timelines, but if you’re hiring locally, patience and clear communication are key.

6. Not Factoring in Condo or Village Rules

Many Bangkok residences, especially upscale ones in areas like Sathorn or Asoke, have strict policies about when service providers can enter or what equipment they can bring. Expats sometimes book a team only to find they’re turned away at the gate. Check with your building management first—some even offer in-house cleaning options. We’ve navigated these rules for years and can coordinate with security seamlessly, but it’s a detail worth confirming upfront.

7. Underestimating the Value of Recurring Services

Hiring one-off cleaners or repair folks might seem cost-effective, but it often leads to inconsistent quality. Bangkok’s humidity and dust mean homes need regular upkeep—especially if you’re in a high-rise with big windows. Many expats underestimate this, opting for sporadic fixes instead of routine care. Setting up a weekly or monthly cleaning schedule, like what we offer, ensures your place stays pristine without the hassle of constant rebooking. It’s a small investment for peace of mind in a busy city.

Hiring home services in Bangkok doesn’t have to be a trial-and-error game. By researching prices, bridging language gaps, verifying providers, setting clear terms, understanding local norms, checking building rules, and opting for consistency, you can avoid these common pitfalls. As a cleaning company rooted in this city, we’ve seen how a little know-how transforms the expat experience—letting you focus on enjoying Bangkok instead of stressing over your home.