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I recently started a Tenancy Agreement and rented a room (HDB) through an agent. Before signing the agreement the unit seems alright and nothing out of ordinary. However after moving in and upon horror found out that the homeowner was unhygienic and at night attract lots of cockroach roaming around in the house (Yes some even wander into my room). Approached the homeowner and they brush it off as "it is normal, cockroach wander all around the place. Cant kill them all with pesticide" attitude.
The washing machine also was actually broken and non functional, which only was discovered after moved in, had approach the homeowner and they doesnt seems to care about it. (However homeowner inform that the washing machine was useable when viewing the unit).
So as a rental tenant, is there anyway I can argue that the unit is health hazardous and homeowner doesnt fulfill the tenancy agreement with incomplete necessity? It was not written anywhere in my TA agreement if the stated above was sufficient enough for breaking the TA from the owner side.
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3 Answers

If there is nothing mentioned in the agreement, it is then going to be tricky in managing the situation as you may need to engage a lawyer to effectively assist you in breaking the tenancy agreement and getting back your deposit.

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Hi, it is usually up to the landlord to ensure pest control is kept up with, and since there is an agent serving you, it is best to ask your agent to assist you in negotiate with the landlord either in solving the issue or if possible end the lease. However, it might be challenging if there are no break lease clause in the contract.

Hi, hopefully you managed to get your doubt or query answered. If so, then congrats! Hopefully you are doing well now.

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In your situation, where you've discovered significant hygiene issues and broken appliances after moving into a rented HDB room, there are several steps you can take to address the problem. Here’s a detailed guide on how to proceed:

1. Review Your Tenancy Agreement (TA)
Check for Clauses:

Carefully review your Tenancy Agreement to identify any clauses related to the condition of the property and the obligations of the homeowner.
Look for clauses regarding repairs, maintenance, and the condition of appliances.
2. Document the Issues
Gather Evidence:

Take photos and videos of the cockroaches, the broken washing machine, and any other issues.
Keep records of all communications with the homeowner about these problems.
3. Communicate with the Homeowner
Send a Formal Request:

Write a formal letter or email to the homeowner, detailing the issues and requesting immediate action to resolve them.
Mention the specific problems (cockroach infestation, broken washing machine) and the impact on your living conditions.

4HDB Guidelines:

Review HDB guidelines for rental properties to understand your rights as a tenant and the obligations of the homeowner.
HDB has regulations regarding the maintenance and hygiene of rental units.
5. Explore Legal Options
Consult a Lawyer:

If the homeowner remains uncooperative, consider consulting a lawyer specializing in tenancy laws.
A lawyer can provide advice on whether you have grounds to terminate the tenancy agreement based on health hazards and unfulfilled contractual obligations.
6. Engage Your Agent
Agent Assistance:

Contact the agent who facilitated the rental. Agents are often responsible for ensuring that properties meet basic living standards.
Request their assistance in resolving the issues with the homeowner.
8. Health and Safety Concerns
Report Health Hazards:

If the cockroach infestation poses a significant health risk, consider reporting it to the relevant health authorities.
Summary
While the tenancy agreement might not explicitly mention the condition of the unit regarding hygiene and functionality of appliances, tenants have a right to a habitable living environment. Documenting the issues, formally requesting the homeowner to address them, and seeking mediation or legal advice are key steps. Engaging the agent who facilitated the rental can also help in resolving the situation. If conditions do not improve, you might have grounds to terminate the tenancy agreement based on health hazards and unfulfilled obligations.
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