Your Guide to Tenancy Agreements in Singapore

What is a tenancy agreement?

A tenancy agreement states the scope of the contractual relationship between landlord and tenant by stipulating each parties’ rights and duties in respect of the tenancy.

Tenancy agreements are vital for both landlord and tenant. They clearly set out each party’s rights and duties under the agreement in order regulate the leasing of the property.

Tenancy agreements therefore safeguard parties against the repercussions that come along with early termination of the tenancy by the other, especially in event of a tenancy dispute.

What terms should a tenancy agreement contain?

A comprehensive tenancy agreement will generally include the following terms:

1. Identified property and term of tenancy;
2. Payment of rent and utilities: such payments include any charges, subscriptions or license fees. The tenancy agreement may also require the tenant to put up a security deposit which may be forfeited if the property has incurred damage that requires repairs, or if the tenant fails to comply with the terms of the tenancy agreement;
3. Use of premises;
4. Immigration status of tenant and occupiers;
5. Maintenance of premises and effects;
6. Tenant’s covenants: e.g. to pay rent, to keep in repair, permit landlord to view the premises, not to assign or sublet;
7. Landlord’s covenants: e.g. to provide quiet enjoyment of the premises, to provide premises fit for human habitation, and to not derogate from the grant;
8. Termination of lease;
9. Suspension of rent;
10. Notices;
11. Anticipatory breach; and
12. Stamp fees.

Read our other article for more information on common terms in tenancy agreements.

Tenancy agreement template

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