yeah it's basically standard for condos and apartments here. the 7 baht is what they call the "service rate" and it's not really regulated the same way as the MEA rate for direct residential. most buildings just pass on the extra to cover transformer loss and maintenance. you can try negotiating if you're signing a long lease but honestly 7 is on the lower end for a Bangkok condo, some places go up to 8 or 9. if you want the real government rate you'd need a direct meter from the MEA which almost no rental units have

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honestly 7 baht is pretty standard for most condos in Bangkok, i've seen places charge 8 or even 9 in some newer buildings near Thong Lo. the thing is the government rate is for residential direct meters, but most apartments have a bulk meter from the MEA and then sub-meter each unit, so they add a surcharge for the transformer loss and common area usage. if you're really bothered, check your lease for the wording - if it says "service charge" or "management fee" for electricity you're prob stuck, but if it says "as per MEA" you could push back. also worth noting that some buildings include water in the electricity bill at a flat rate too, so ask about that before signing

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unfortunately it's totally legal. most leases have a clause saying you pay the "building rate" which is whatever they decide, usually 7-8 baht. some places even go up to 10 if they're feeling greedy. your only leverage is before signing the contract, once you're in it's hard to fight. if you really want the government rate you'd need a condo with a direct MEA meter, which is rare but some older buildings or high-end ones have it. check your lease for the exact wording, if it says "at cost" or "as per MEA" you might have a case, but if it just says "7 baht/unit" you're stuck

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yeah Krua Dok Mai Kao is solid but if you're up for a detour, try Som Tum Nua near Siam Square. their som tam pu pla ra is insane if you like the fermented fish sauce kick. way more pungent than the On Nut spot, just less grilled chicken options

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