In Part 1, we covered the key clauses around renting in Singapore for lease period, rent, deposit, repairs, air-conditioning servicing, and diplomatic clauses.
In Part 2, we look at the clauses that affect what happens during the lease, how the tenancy can end, and what renters should prepare for before moving out.
7. Early Termination Clause
Not every early exit is covered by a diplomatic clause. Check whether early termination is allowed, how much notice is required, and what penalties or replacement tenant conditions may apply.
Some agreements may require the tenant to continue paying rent until a replacement tenant is found. Others may allow early termination only after compensation is paid. This is why renters should not assume they can end the lease early without cost.
8. Renewal Clause
A renewal clause explains whether the tenant has the option to continue the lease. Check how early notice must be given, and whether the renewal rent will be fixed or negotiated closer to the lease expiry.
Tenants may be asked to give renewal notice one to three months before the lease ends. The new rental amount is usually subject to market conditions and agreement between landlord and tenant.
Before renewing, renters can compare current rental listings on real-agent.ai Listing Portal to see whether the proposed rent is still competitive. They can also check the project page on real-agent.ai to understand the transaction history and price trends of their selected HDB block or condo, which can provide useful context before agreeing to a new rental amount.
9. Inventory List and Property Condition
For furnished or partially furnished units, the inventory list should clearly record what is provided. Renters should check furniture, appliances, keys, access cards, and existing defects very carefully before signing the handover documents.
An inventory list may include items such as sofa, beds, fridge, washing machine, oven, curtains, aircon remotes, keys, and access cards. Tenants should take photos during handover to record scratches, stains, faulty appliances, or missing items.
10. Stamp Duty
Tenancy agreements in Singapore are generally subject to stamp duty. Check who is responsible for paying it - either you or the landlord, and make sure the agreement is properly stamped after signing.
For leases of four years or less, IRAS states that lease duty is generally 0.4% of the total rent for the lease period, if the average annual rent exceeds S$1,000. Lease duty is rounded down to the nearest dollar, subject to a minimum duty of S$1.
11. Landlord Access to the Property
The agreement should state when the landlord, agent, or contractor can enter the unit. Renters should ensure reasonable notice is required, except in emergencies or urgent repair situations.
A typical clause may allow access for repairs, inspection, or viewings with prior notice. For example, the landlord or agent may request viewings during the final weeks of the lease to find the next tenant.
12. Use of Premises
Most residential leases only allow the unit to be used as a private home. Check for restrictions on subletting, pets, smoking, business use, or long-term guests.
A tenancy agreement may state that the property cannot be sublet, used for business, or occupied by people not listed in the agreement. For private residential properties, URA also does not allow short-term accommodation on a daily or weekly basis.
13. Handover and Move-Out Conditions
Move-out requirements should be reviewed before signing, not only at the end of the lease. Check whether professional cleaning, aircon servicing, repairs, or reinstatement works are required before handing back the unit.
Tenants may be expected to return the property in its original condition, except for fair wear and tear. Some agreements may require final aircon servicing, cleaning, removal of personal items, and replacement of missing keys or access cards.
A tenancy agreement may look standard, but the details matter. Before signing, renters should review key clauses on rent, deposit, repairs, early termination, stamp duty, and move-out conditions. This helps reduce confusion and gives renters a clearer understanding of their responsibilities throughout the lease.
For renters still searching or comparing homes, real-agent.ai Listing Portal can be used to compare rental listings side-by-side and shortlist suitable options.
