Singapore tenancy: what to check before you sign
The tenancy agreement is the only binding record between landlord and tenant. Listings on this site come from landlords and different partner operators whose deposits, payment methods and terms are not uniform — the points below are common practice for reference only; the signed agreement and the operator's notes always prevail.
Updated: 2026-09-03Author: PropertyCoco Rental Content TeamReviewed by: Singapore licensed real estate agentData source: Live listings from the platform and partner landlords/operators, refreshed daily
Deposit and rent
- Deposits are set by each landlord or operator: one month is common, some ask two — write the refund terms into the agreement.
- State clearly in the agreement whether monthly rent covers condo management fees and utilities.
- Rental Stamp Duty is computed on the term's rent at current IRAS rates and usually borne by the tenant; a lease signed in Singapore must be stamped via IRAS e-Stamping within 14 days — see the IRAS Stamp Duty page.
Lease term and early exit
Under URA rules, the statutory minimum continuous lease for private residential property (condos etc.) is 3 months, while typical market leases run 6–12 months and other property types (e.g. whole HDB flats) commonly require longer minimums. Ask for the minimum term and short-lease options before viewing. Leaving early usually means paying the remainder or as agreed; renewal and rent-increase clauses should also be confirmed before signing.
Move-out and daily rules
- Inventory list with photos, signed on day one, used to verify at move-out.
- Air-con servicing is often the tenant's cost every quarter — keep the receipts.
- Walk through cooking, pets and overnight-guest restrictions one by one.
Note
This page is general guidance, not legal advice. Amounts, tax obligations and clauses follow your signed tenancy and the latest official guidance (e.g. IRAS, CEA).
FAQ
How much deposit is normal in Singapore?
One month's rent is common; some landlords ask two. It is refundable at move-out less reasonable damage — put it in writing.
What is the minimum lease? Can I rent short-term?
For private residential property the statutory minimum continuous lease is 3 months (URA rules); most market leases run 6–12 months and flexible 3-month options exist. The minimum term depends on the property type and operator — follow the official rules and the signed agreement.
Who pays for air-con servicing?
Most agreements make the tenant responsible for quarterly servicing with receipts kept for move-out verification. Follow your contract.
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