Know your tenancy contract

1. DETAILED TERMS IN THE SCHEDULE

The Schedule includes specific tenancy terms that are negotiable between the landlord and tenant.

A. General Information

Clause	Details
Date of Agreement	Date when the contract is signed.
Property Address	Full address of the rented residential property.
Type of Property	Number of bedrooms and furnished status.
Landlord’s Details	Full name, NRIC, FIN, or UEN (for companies), phone number, and email address
Tenant’s Details	Full name, NRIC, FIN, or UEN (for companies), phone number, and email address
Occupiers Allowed	Names & NRIC/Work Pass details of people allowed to stay.

B. Tenancy Duration & Rental Terms

Clause	Details
Lease Term	Must be at least 3 months (legal minimum for private properties).
Start & End Date	Specifies when the tenancy begins and ends.
Monthly Rent	Amount to be paid each month, due on a fixed date.
Security Deposit	Typically 1-2 months' rent (refundable upon lease completion).
Payment Method	Bank transfer, cheque, or cash.
Late Payment Penalty	Charges for overdue rent (e.g., X% per day after due date).

Note on Security Deposit

• The security deposit shall be refunded to the Tenant within [X] days after the end of the tenancy, provided there are no outstanding rental payments, unpaid utility bills, or damages beyond normal wear and tear.

• The Landlord shall provide an itemized list of any deductions from the security deposit within [X] days of the tenancy end.

• The security deposit cannot be withheld unreasonably, and any deductions must be supported with receipts or quotations for repairs.

• If there is a dispute regarding the deductions, both parties attempt to resolve the matter through mediation before escalating to legal action.

• If the Landlord fails to refund the security deposit within the stipulated period without reasonable justification, the Tenant shall be entitled to claim the deposit through legal means or the Small Claims Tribunal.

C. Repairs & Maintenance

Clause	Details
Minor Repairs	Tenant is responsible for minor repairs up to S$X per incident.
Major Repairs	Landlord is responsible for structural damages or wear & tear.
Aircon Servicing	Tenant must service air-conditioners every 3 months.
Pest Control	Tenant must keep the unit clean & pest-free.
Utilities	Tenant pays for electricity, water, gas, and internet.

Note on wear and tear

It refers to the natural and gradual deterioration of a property and its fixtures due to normal daily use over time. It excludes damage caused by negligence, misuse, or accidents.

• Examples of Normal Wear and Tear (Landlord’s Responsibility)

  These are expected and acceptable changes due to long-term use:
  ✔ Faded paint or wallpaper due to sunlight exposure.
  ✔ Minor scuffs and marks on walls from furniture placement.
  ✔ Light scratches on wooden floors from walking or moving chairs.
  ✔ Worn-out carpets or rugs due to foot traffic.
  ✔ Loose door hinges or handles from frequent use.
  ✔ Dull or slightly chipped countertops from years of use.
  ✔ Appliances aging naturally (e.g., a fridge motor wearing out).

• Examples of Damage (Tenant’s Responsibility)

  These are avoidable and caused by negligence or misuse:
  ❌ Holes in walls from drilling, nails, or hooks not repaired.
  ❌ Stains, burns, or rips on carpets or flooring.
  ❌ Broken windows, mirrors, or doors due to impact.
  ❌ Water damage from leaving taps running or not reporting leaks.
  ❌ Mold or pest infestations due to poor cleanliness.
  ❌ Missing or damaged light fixtures due to improper use.
  ❌ Broken appliances due to improper use (e.g., overloading washing machines).

D. Break Clause / Early Termination

Clause	Details
Diplomatic Clause	Expatriate tenants can terminate early if relocated by their employer.
Notice Period	Either party must give X months’ written notice.
Penalty for Early Termination	Tenant may forfeit deposit or pay rent in lieu of notice.

2. OPERATIVE PART (General Terms & Conditions)

This section includes legally binding obligations for both landlords and tenants.

A. Landlord’s Responsibilities

1. Maintain the property’s structure, wiring, plumbing, and fixtures.

2. Ensure the property is in habitable condition before handing over.

3. Allow the tenant quiet enjoyment of the property.

4. Insure the property against fire and damages (if applicable).

B. Tenant’s Responsibilities

1. Pay rent and utilities on time.

2. Use the property only for residential purposes (no illegal activities).

3. Avoid excessive wear & tear beyond normal use.

4. Seek written consent before making structural alterations.

5. No subletting without landlord’s approval.

6. Return the property in the same condition at lease-end (except fair wear & tear).

C. Landlord’s Right of Entry

1. Landlord must give at least X hours’ notice before entering for inspections or repairs.

2. Cannot enter without tenant’s permission except in emergencies.

3. ANNEXURES (Supporting Documents)

These documents ensure transparency and reduce disputes at the end of the lease.

A. Annexure A – End of Tenancy Checklist

1. Clean the entire unit, including cabinets, appliances, and windows.

2. Remove all personal belongings.

3. Repair holes or marks on walls from nails or adhesives.

4. Provide aircon servicing receipts.

5. Ensure all keys, access cards, and remote controls are returned.

B. Annexure B – Inventory List

1. Documents all items provided by the landlord (e.g., furniture, appliances).

2. Includes condition reports (e.g., scratches, working status).

3. Both parties must sign off to confirm accuracy.

C. Annexure C – Property Condition Report

1. Includes photos & descriptions of the unit’s condition at move-in.

2. Used to compare against end-of-tenancy inspection.

3. Helps determine fair wear & tear vs. tenant-caused damage.

4. OTHER IMPORTANT CLAUSES

A. Exclusion of Liability

1. Landlord not liable for accidents or injuries inside the property.

2. Tenant responsible for their own safety & belongings.

B. En-Bloc Notice

1. If the property is selected for en-bloc redevelopment, the landlord can terminate the lease with 3 months' notice.

C. Governing Law & Dispute Resolution

1. The agreement follows Singapore law.

2. Disputes should first go to mediation or arbitration before court proceedings.

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