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Hi. I am a landlord for a studio apartment. My tenant has left. The security deposit still with me as I am making final deductions due to repairs, late payment interest, missing inventory items, no service records of aircon or curtain dry clean.
Yesterday, after running into the neighbours, I was shocked to find out that the tenant has been living with his partner and her young son in my apartment. He claimed to be single when he signed the TA. It makes sense as some of the damages found is unlikely caused by an adult - more likely by a child. I feel this is a serious violation of contract terms. He has not replied nor provided me with his bank account so that I can return some deposit. It has been more than 2 weeks since I asked. I presume he will go to SCT. But will it be fair if I withhold the rest of the deposit ($1k) for that breach of contract? Will SCT take his offence seriously if I brought it up. I am not a greedy landlord, but I feel it is only fair because, had I found out earlier during his tenancy, I will have asked him to leave my apartment. It is meant for one not three.
Thanks in advance.
Mike G
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8 Answers

Thomas Ang 洪瑞兴
Keep records of all the damages done to your property with photos (with date/time stamp) and wait for the tenant or SCT to contact you. Meanwhile what is over is over, the key focus is to find new tenant and keep your unit tenantable to pay for mortgages., Feel free to reach out to me if you me to help find you a new tenant. Thanks Thomas Orangetee AAG 97916894  Read More
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Hi, appreciate your sharing. You can collect all evidence and proceed with SCT. It depend on the amount as well for SCT.
Looking forward to assist you at 9696 4398  or email me at stewartlim96964398@gmail.com

Cheers
Stewart-PropNex Read More
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Hi Mike,

I would be most glad to assist you further and pls feel free to let me know if you need any assistance. Have a good day ahead. By the way, hearing your side of the story, I think it is perfectly fine to deduct for most items and if this will to happen to my other property, my landlord would have probably forfeit all deposit. I have my fair share of accompanying my landlord to the SCT too. So meanwhile, just remember to keep all the photo especially spoilt goods as evidence will do and you definitely have a case to fight.

Regards
Aaron Chong
 9730 8455 
aaronchong2774@yahoo.com.sg Read More
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Hi Mike,

You will be able to submit your claims to justify this amount being withheld and let SCT decide if you should return the amount or not.

I have been in the real estate business since 2009, with more than 14 years of experience serving the Singapore real estate market.

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Hi Mike,

If there are any breach in the tenancy contract terms, it is rightful for the landlord to deduct from the security deposit. If the tenant is going to Small Claims, then you will need to compile a record of all the damages and keep the receipts for all the rectifications so that you can present your side of the case.

Please feel free to contact me if you need any further assistance.

Regards,
Nick Tan
(M) +65 96 44 48 54
B.Eng(Chemical)(Hons)(NUS) / Cert-in-REA
(E) nick96444854@gmail.com

SEAA Salespersons Achievement Platinum Award 2020/2022/2023

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Robbie Chen Chee Howe
Hi Mike,

I'm sorry to hear about your situation.

Based on the above, you not only have the rights to hold onto and confiscate the deposit, you can also make claims against him for breach of contract. You may wish to consolidate the damages (and proof) to strengthen your case.

I am experienced and well-versed in both HDB and private transactions. I will be able to assist you in your property plans. Please get in touch with me for a more in-depth discussion.

Should you need require further assistance in matters relating to property, please contact me at my mobile +65 97 48 63 05. I will be happy to assess and share with you the possibilities for you in the current market.

Thank you.

Best regards,
Robbie Chen
+65 97 48 63 05
PropNex Realty Read More
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My Answer with regards to your Question:

SCT Proceedings: If the matter escalates to the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT), present your case and evidence to support your claim for withholding the security deposit. The SCT will assess the evidence and make a decision based on the merits of the case.

Ultimately, fairness and adherence to the law should guide your actions in this situation. It's essential to act reasonably and in good faith while protecting your rights as a landlord. You can reach out to me if you are considering renting out again.

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We value your home as much as you do! Find out the indicative value of your home at http://bit.ly/UrHomeMatters and get monthly update on your home value. Restructure your portfolio with us, speak to us! Read More
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