Phuket probes Wichit condo over daily rentals

Phuket officials have begun legal action against the operator of a condominium in Wichit after an inspection allegedly found rooms being offered for daily rental without a hotel licence.

The inspection was carried out on July 29, following complaints from residents. Officials said daily guest rentals at the property may amount to operating a hotel without the required permission under Thailand's Hotel Act.

Complaint led to inspection

Officials found staff at the condominium during the visit, but said neither the owners nor the manager was present at the time.

Statements were taken from those involved, including guests and evidence was gathered for submission to investigators. The operator is expected to face legal proceedings for allegedly running a hotel without a licence under Section 15 of the Hotel Act B.E. 2547 (2004).

Thai law requires accommodation businesses offering rooms on a daily basis as a hotel operation to hold a hotel operating licence. Officials said breaches can carry criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.

Part of wider action on unlicensed stays

Authorities reported that the Wichit inspection forms part of Phuket's continuing campaign against unlicensed accommodation businesses.

Authorities said the enforcement work supports government efforts to improve tourist safety and ensure fair competition for properly licensed accommodation providers.

For foreign visitors and residents, the case is a reminder that not every condo advertised for short stays is necessarily authorised to operate as hotel-style accommodation. Travellers booking nightly rooms in condominiums may wish to check the property's status and booking arrangements before arrival, particularly during busy periods when short-term rentals are widely marketed.

Picture courtesy of ที่ทำการปกครอง อำเภอเมืองภูเก็ต

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31 July 2026

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