Asked by Anonymous
I will be moving out of Singapore within the next three months. I informed my landlord's agent about my departure within this timeframe. I have been living in this apartment for over three years (the contract was renewed after two years). The agent has told me that I need to pay a pro-rata brokerage fee for one year, which I have agreed to. However, I have also been informed that since I am breaking the lease mid-term, I either need to pay rent for the remaining months or continue paying until the landlord finds a new tenant.
My friend who is a transaction lawyer has advised me that this demand is unreasonable. According to the law, the landlord cannot force me to pay for the remaining rent, especially since my immigration status will change, which impacts the enforceability of the lease. Furthermore, landlords cannot prevent anyone from leaving under such circumstances.
I have asked the landlord's agent to resolve this amicably by deducting a justified and reasonable amount from the security deposit rather than imposing unfair charges. If the landlord or agent continues to impose forceful demands, what legal options do I have to address this situation?
My friend who is a transaction lawyer has advised me that this demand is unreasonable. According to the law, the landlord cannot force me to pay for the remaining rent, especially since my immigration status will change, which impacts the enforceability of the lease. Furthermore, landlords cannot prevent anyone from leaving under such circumstances.
I have asked the landlord's agent to resolve this amicably by deducting a justified and reasonable amount from the security deposit rather than imposing unfair charges. If the landlord or agent continues to impose forceful demands, what legal options do I have to address this situation?
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