Usufruct is one of the real rights under civil and commercial code of Thailand (CCC). In this article we are going to give you essential information about it, including meaning, period of time, compensation assignment and inheritance etc.
Meaning
Usufruct means rights to the possession of an immovable property, including use and enjoyment. Also, management of the property. The usufruct of a forest, mine or quarry entitles the usufructuary to the exploitation of the forest, mine or quarry (Section 1417 of CCC). It gives more right than a leasehold right but less right than a freehold right.
Period of Time
A usufruct may be created either for a period of time or for the life of the usufructuary. If no time has been fixed, it is presumed that the usufruct is for the life of the usufructuary. If it is created for a period of time, the period may not exceed thirty years; if a longer period is stipulated, it shall be reduced to thirty years. The grant may be renewed for a period not exceeding thirty years from the time of renewal. (Section 1418 and 1403 paragraph 3 of CCC).
Assignment and Inheritance
Unless otherwise provided in the act creating the usufruct, the usufructuary may transfer the exercise of his right to the third person. In such cases the owner of the property may sue the transferee directly (Section 1422 of CCC).
However, the usufruct comes to an end on the death of the usufructuary (Last paragraph of Section 1418 of CCC). It means the right of usufruct isn’t transferable and transmissible by way of inheritance.
Maintenance and Expenses
To exercise usufruct, the usufructurist not only must take as much care of the property as a person of ordinary prudence would take of his own property but also to keep the substance of the property unaltered, and is responsible for ordinary maintenance and pretty repairs.
If important repairs or measures are necessary for the preservation of the property, the usufructuary must forthwith inform the owner thereof and permit them to be carried out. In case of default by the owner, the usufructuary may have the work carried out at the owner’s expense (Section 1421 and 1424 of CCC).
For the duration of the usufruct, the usufructuary shall bear expenses for the management of the property, pay taxes and duties, and be responsible for interests payable on debts charged upon it (Section 1426 of CCC).
Conclusion
Usufruct is an option of the real rights under Thai law which may be suitable for you. It gives you different rights from freehold and leasehold, also superficies and Habitation. For further information, just feel free to contact us. If you are in need of a real estate lawyer or for more information feel free to contract us at any time.
