Rental Property A Tenant’s Guide To Finding The Right Rental Property

Residential Rentals RENTALS.SG  

Today Join Our Global Community

Today

RENTALS.SG  

RENTALS.SG and our global property rental website, RENTALSWORLDWIDE.com, are home to over 250,0000 vacation rental properties, more than 140,000 hotel listings worldwide and a growing community of landlords who list their long-term rental properties direct to potential tenants. With rental demand growing in major cities around the world, Singapore is no exception. RENTALS.SG presents a local unique platform for landlords to reach potential tenants without the costly expense of engaging a real estate agent. We believe in keeping the process of renting a property as simple as possible, which is why believe in the benefits of a system that allows you to deal direct with the decision maker – the landlord. When you use RENTALS.SG, in most instances, you will deal direct with the property owner. We hope you will find this guide useful as you reach out to find a new home in Singapore.

Home Looking For A

New Home You may have just relocated to Singapore and are now considering renting a property for the first time, or perhaps you have lived here for a number of years and are looking for a change. We have created this eGuide to help you get started and to familiarise yourself with the basics of renting a property in Singapore. Importantly, being a tenant does hold a responsibility and you should take time to understand what is expected of you and, of course, your landlord. By fulfilling your role as a tenant effectively you will give yourself the best possible chance of a rewarding relationship with your landlord. To start your search and plan your viewings, simply visit RENTALS.SG and make contact with each property owner directly.

RENTALS.SG  

Simple Keeping The Process

Simple When you use RENTALS.SG, in most instances, you will deal directly with the property owner. You can ask questions and confirm details with the owner before arranging to view the property. In this way, you can save time and create a short list of properties based on first hand information. With a short list of potential rentals, you may arrange a convenient time to meet the landlord’s and view each property. Landlord’s would know their own property well and can provide you with useful information and advice. They can also tell you directly what they can and cannot provide for you in terms of your request list. When you decide to rent the property, you will sign a Letter of Intent and pay a good faith deposit to keep the property off of the market. During this time the property owner will prepare and provide you with a Tenancy Agreement for review and signature. By going direct to landlord’s you will benefit from a more efficient first hand discussion rather than through a third or even fourth party.

RENTALS.SG  

Location Choosing The Right Location and Budget

Location Location and budget are probably the two most important considerations when deciding where to rent a property. Other important factors may include accessibility for work and school. Give some thought to traffic flow at different times of the day. A good location with easy access to your key and regular destinations is important. The choice between renting a landed property or a condominium should be influenced by your personal or family lifestyle requirements. Many condominiums have excellent facilities that could be an ideal benefit for children. Landed properties may offer a garden. We encourage property owners to provide as much information as possible on their property and the facilities through a comprehensive checklist at the time of listing the property. Budget criteria is a very personal matter, but needless to say, certain locations and developments are more expensive than others. Take a little time to research the locations where you have interest. Remember that renovated units in older developments can also offer good value.

RENTALS.SG  

Responsibilities Know Your Landlord’s

Responsibilities Your Lease Agreement will ultimately define the responsibilities of both parties. Some conditions may vary as negotiated and if you are unsure, you should seek the advice of a lawyer. The landlord is generally responsible for: -  Allowing the tenants to reside in the property undisturbed.

-  Undertaking certain repairs and keeping the property in good order, including to maintain the structure and exterior of the property, water supply, electrical wiring, drainage and toilets. However, repairs of less than S$150.00 are the responsibility of the tenant.

-  Major repairs on air-conditioning units. The regular service contract is a tenant responsibility and is likely a condition of the Lease Agreement.

-  Payment of management charges and government fees.

-  To make sure that the building complies with all local regulations.

RENTALS.SG  

Responsibilities Know Your Landlord’s Rights &

Responsibilities The landlord has certain rights in addition to responsibilities and you should be aware of these. In general; -  The landlord can repossess the property should the rent go

unpaid as stipulated in the Tenancy Agreement and the landlord may still collect any overdue rent from the tenant.

-  The landlord may dispose of any unclaimed items left at the property within a specified period of time.

-  Exercise any break in the lease that is in accordance with the terms of the Tenancy Agreement.

-  Enter the property after providing the tenant with reasonable notice, usually stipulated in the Tenancy Agreement.

-  Can seek possession of the property if it has been determined to be significantly damaged by the tenant.

RENTALS.SG  

Responsibilities Know Your Tenant

Responsibilities As a tenant you should be aware of your responsibilities towards the landlord and property : -  To reside in the property and pay all rent, utilities, services such

as cable television and internet for both activation and subscription.

-  Pay the relevant government fees to register the Tenancy Agreement.

-  For landed properties, the swimming pool, gardening, and pest control are usually the tenant's responsibility.

-  Servicing of the air-conditioning units using a regular contractor and service plan.

-  To take good care of the property and furnishings and not be negligent (except for fair wear and tear). Pay for any minor repairs up the amount stipulated in the Tenancy Agreement.

-  To return the property in good condition. In the case of exercising the Diplomatic Clause, reimburse to the landlord the agents commission fees for the remaining rental period.

RENTALS.SG  

Home Viewing Your New

Home When you view the rental property, you will likely meet your potential landlord for the first time. He will be able to explain the property to you in detail and also elaborate on the area in general. You should take this opportunity to discuss first hand with the landlord your requirements and determine any flexibility with regard to the rental rate and items that you may require. Having a checklist prepared may help but recognize that the landlord may have limitations. Taking photographs is a good way to remember each property that you view. Check the exterior and interior of the property, the condition of equipment such as the cooker, oven, fridge/freezer, air-cons, washing machine and dryer. Are the general premises well maintained? Is there adequate parking? Is the security professional? Who will be your neighbors? Try and obtain as much information as possible to help make an informed decision. Importantly, use this opportunity to establish a good relationship with your potential landlord.

RENTALS.SG  

Safety Standards for rentals in the UK, for example, are very strict and are set out under the the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Amendment Regulations 1993. No such regulations apply in Singapore and it is in your own interests to satisfy yourself that adequate measures are considered are taken with your rental property. We are keen to establish responsible practices between landlords and tenants. -  Generally speaking furniture made before 1988 is unlikely to

meet the necessary UK safety standards. These include upholstery such as beds, headboards, mattresses, futons, sofa beds, children’s furniture, cushions and pillows.

-  Check these items by looking for the permanent label stating the regulation it conforms to.

-  Check for fire extinguishers, smoke detectors throughout the property and a fire blanket for the kitchen.

-  Electrical wiring in the property must be safe and in good working order. Wiring that is more than 15 years old should be checked on an annual basis.

-  Under UK laws, landlords are required to service all gas related equipment at least once every 12 months and keep a written record. Check the last service date with your landlord.

Safety Together We Improve

Safety Standards

RENTALS.SG  

Payments The Tenancy Agreement

Deposits & Payments As soon as you have agreed to rent the property, you will need to sign a Letter of Intent (LOI) prior to signing the Tenancy Agreement. You will also be required to provide your passport and employment pass details and pay the equivalent of one months, rental as a good faith deposit. Upon signing the Tenancy Agreement, you will be required to pay a security deposit equal to two months rent. Usually your good faith deposit is converted to equal one of these months. Advance rent equal to one month is also payable at this time. You should receive a written receipt for any payment that you make and it is good practice to keep a record of any cheque that you issue to the landlord. Ensure that the Diplomatic Clause is included into your Tenancy Agreement as this can be invoked should you be relocated to another country during the rental period.

RENTALS.SG  

Move In Preparing to

Move In Prior to moving into your new rental property, you should check with your landlord to ensure that: -  The property has been cleaned and any agreed repairs have

been carried out. -  All of the air-conditioning units have been serviced. You should

request a copy of the service report. -  The utility bills have been transferred to your name and meter

readings taken. You may also take a reading for your own records.

-  That any equipment such as alarm systems have been labeled. -  You have a number of spare keys, access cards and parking

labels.

On the handover day you will be required to check the inventory list and condition of the property. Be thorough and take pictures as this may help to avoid a dispute at a later date. Correct and countersign any amendments to the inventory list with the landlord. Make sure you have noted any emergency contact numbers or service numbers and have discussed and agreed a procedure with the landlord. Finally, receive your keys and enjoy your new home. RENTALS.SG  

Factors Key Success

Factors RENTALS.SG is a marketplace that enables potential tenants and landlords to Go Direct and find a great place to live. Here are some tips to get the best from this service: -  Research your preferred location and establish your budget. -  List your priorities for the type of rental you would prefer but at

the same time recognize that some concessions may have to be made.

-  Be responsive, clear and professional in your communication with landlords.

-  Keep accurate records of discussions, payments and agreements, both formal and informal.

-  Keep Safe. Your landlord is not obliged to provide safety equipment but you may consider investing in this yourself and take these items with you at the end of the rental period.

-  Ensure timely payments of your rent. -  Resolve any potential problems early and amicably and by

suggesting solutions. -  Maintain a good relationship with your landlord.

Happy home hunting! RENTALS.SG  

Registered Office: The PHILLIPS Group Pte Ltd 8 Robinson Road | ASO Building | #06.00 | Singapore | 048544 All rights are reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means. This includes but is not limited to photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without prior written permission of The PHILLIPS Group Pte Ltd. The PHILLIPS Group Pte Ltd have made every effort to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information contained in this brochure and we assume no responsibility for errors, in accuracies, omissions, or any inconsistency herein. Any likeness or similarity to people, places or organisations is unintentional and purely coincidental. Local rules and regulations may change. Be sure to check with your local authorities before listing or renting your property long-term. Always refer to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy on our website. Copyright © 2014, The PHILLIPS Group Pte Ltd

EXPLORE STAY . LIVE . EXPLORE

WELCOME TO OUR GLOBAL RENTAL COMMUNITY

RENTALS.SG  RENTALSWORDWIDE.COM