Tenancy Agreement (TA) will form the contract for the duration of the tenancy, although Estate Agencies, as well as the Council for Estate Agencies (CEA), provide their own templates as means to help both Landlord and tenants by having a common/standard template to make use of, do note that it is overall subject to the landlord discretion on what clauses he/she will want to include in the tenancy agreement and it’s for the tenant to read, agree and sign on it.
It is a common mistake made by many tenants (who aren’t savvy in the local laws and understanding their rights) to end up agreeing to things that later put them at a disadvantage. It may be easier to source homes via the many portals out there but it is always better to engage a professional real estate agent who will be able to guide you through and protect your interest.
Below are some of the more common clauses you would likely find in Tenancy Agreements (TA):
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Schedule
The move-in date and when payments are to be made. The length of the tenancy and by when the tenant should inform the landlord on renewal or intent to terminate. -
Utility / Maintenance fee
Condo maintenance fees are paid by the landlord. Landed houses, some of the expenses are paid by the tenant. Under this clause you'll find info on the roles & responsibilities of each party and who pays for what. -
Sale with tenancy
The contract may include a minimum occupancy period & notice period OR sold with the tenancy in its entirety. The agreement will likely mention the arrangement for when potential buyers can view the property. -
Identity of parties
The identity of all the occupiers (tenants) which can't be more than six unrelated persons. It will also include the landlord's home address which should be different than the one just rented. -
Early Termination (Diplomatic Clause)
Normally only applies to foreigners on a 2 year lease and above on a 12+2 term, which means after 12 months with a 2 months notice period. (Subject to contract). -
Air-Con Servicing
The tenant will need to ensure the air-conditioners are being serviced and cleaned. Most commonly signed as an annual contract with quarterly servicing. (The tenant pays for it) -
Minor Repairs
After the 30 days defect period, any minor repairs amounting between $200-$300 (subject to contract) is to be paid by the tenant. Should the amount exceed, landlord will top-up the difference. -
Upkeep of the Property
A detailed report will state the condition during handover; it may include obligations by the tenant to dry clean the curtains and professionally clean the house (normal wear-n-tear is excluded)
It is worth noting that the following applies (by law) in Singapore as well:
- A minimum lease Duration: 3 Months (Condo) / 6 Months (HDB)
- No more than 6 unrelated tenants are allowed to stay in one property
- Airbnb follows the above rules
Typical lease durations in Singapore are One or Two years for residential properties.
