In a city as dynamic and densely populated as Dhaka, finding or renting a home, flat, sublet, or commercial space can be both challenging and competitive. One of the oldest yet most effective traditional tools in the rental ecosystem is the Tolet Board. In this article, we explore everything you need to know about using a Tolet Board in Dhaka, from its purpose, design, placement, to how it competes in the digital age.
What is a Tolet Board?
A Tolet Board is a small advertisement sign placed outside a property or in public spaces to inform passersby that a house, flat, room, or commercial space is available for rent. In Dhaka, this practice is highly common in both residential and commercial zones. These boards are often found on:
Gates
Electricity poles
Walls near busy intersections
Local market entrances
Roadside shops
Why Tolet Boards Still Matter in Dhaka
Even in the age of online listings and mobile apps, Tolet Boards in Dhaka remain one of the most direct, cost-effective, and location-specific methods for reaching potential tenants.
Benefits of Using Tolet Boards:
Instant local exposure to people already in the area
Low-cost or free form of advertisement
Works well in areas with low digital reach
Effective for targeting walk-in tenants, like students and workers
Where Are Tolet Boards Commonly Used in Dhaka?
Residential Zones:
Mirpur, Dhanmondi, Mohammadpur, Badda, Uttara, Shyamoli, Kallyanpur
Common for family flats, sublets, mess, and bachelor accommodation
Commercial Zones:
Motijheel, Banani, Gulshan, Tejgaon, Kawran Bazar
Boards used for office space, shop rental, showroom, and storage
How to Create an Effective Tolet Board
A poorly designed board may go unnoticed. To attract the right tenant, your Tolet Board in Dhaka must be:
Bold, simple, and readable from a distance
Weatherproof (laminated or printed on plastic)
Short and informative
What to Include on a Tolet Board:
Bold “TO-LET” or “TOLET AVAILABLE” at the top
Type of property: Flat, Room, Sublet, Office, Shop
Size and floor: e.g., 1000 sqft, 3rd floor
Key features: Attached bath, gas, lift, parking
Location: e.g., Road 7, Sector 10, Uttara
Contact number in large, bold digits
Optional: Rent amount or "Call for details"
Sample Tolet Board Text (for Dhaka Use)
Where to Place a Tolet Board in Dhaka
Proper placement increases the chance of your board being noticed:
Best Locations for Placement:
On the main gate of the building or house
Near local mosques, markets, and bus stands
Poles near intersections and traffic lights (avoid obstructing traffic)
Community notice boards or local grocery shops (with permission)
Pro Tip: Always ensure the board is at eye level and well-lit at night, especially in high-traffic areas.
Rules & Etiquette for Putting Up a Tolet Board
While this method is widely accepted, it’s important to follow a few ethical and legal guidelines:
Seek permission before placing on private property
Avoid damaging walls or poles with nails or adhesives
Don’t place in restricted zones like government walls, monuments, or police stations
Remove the board once the property is rented
In some parts of Dhaka, city corporations may fine property owners or advertisers for illegal board placements. Use discretion.
Modern Alternatives & Support for Tolet Boards
While Tolet Boards are still widely used, combining them with digital tools improves results. Here’s how:
1. QR Code on the Tolet Board
Add a QR code linking to your online listing with photos and more details
Many tenants prefer to see pictures or contact via WhatsApp
2. Social Media Integration
Post a photo of your Tolet Board in Facebook groups like:
Tolet Flat Rent BD – Family/Bachelor/Sublet
Dhaka Tolet & Mess Rent BD
3. Online Platforms for Tolet Ads
How Landlords and Agents Use Tolet Boards Effectively
Most landlords or brokers in Dhaka use a combination strategy:
Board on the building gate
Local pole postings near bus stops
Facebook post with photo of board
Free ad on websites for broader reach
This mix ensures both local visibility and digital reach, increasing the chance of a quick rental.
Conclusion
The Tolet Board in Dhaka continues to be a simple yet powerful tool in the world of property rentals. Whether you're a landlord trying to rent out a flat or a tenant searching for a place to live, these boards offer an efficient solution that blends traditional marketing with local targeting. When done right—bold fonts, right placement, and contact clarity—Tolet Boards can still outperform many online listings in certain neighborhoods.