Electricity is the most common place expats quietly overpay in Hanoi. The state utility (EVN) charges a tiered rate that rises with usage. Some landlords pass that through honestly. Others charge a flat, higher per-unit rate and keep the difference.
How to check what you are paying
Ask for the per-kWh rate in writing before you sign, and ask to see a recent EVN bill for the unit. If the landlord quotes a single flat rate well above the state tiers, you are likely paying a markup.
- Get the ₫/kWh rate in the contract, not verbally
- Photograph the meter on move-in day
- Compare your rate against the current EVN tiers
- Read the meter yourself each month for the first few months
What is fair
A small administrative margin is normal. A 20–100% markup on every unit is not, and over a hot Hanoi summer it adds up to real money. Serviced apartments usually bundle electricity into the rent, which removes the issue entirely but costs more up front.
How Nest handles it
We confirm the electricity basis on every listing and flag when a unit is billed at the state rate. If a landlord insists on an opaque flat rate, we tell you before you commit.
Find your apartment the safe way
Verified listings, transparent all-in pricing, English contracts, and no tenant fees. Browse homes or talk to a Nest advisor.
