Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Singapore tenancy agreements.
What is a Singapore Tenancy Agreement?
A tenancy agreement (TA) is a legally binding contract between a landlord and tenant that sets out the terms of a residential rental in Singapore. It covers rent, deposit, tenancy period, maintenance responsibilities, and what happens when either party wants to leave early.
Under Singapore law, any tenancy agreement for a period exceeding 9 months must be stamped with the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS). Stamp duty is calculated on the annual rent and must be paid within 14 days of signing.
While verbal agreements are technically valid, a written and stamped tenancy agreement is essential for protecting both landlord and tenant — especially when disputes arise over deposits, repairs, or early termination.
HDB vs Private Property — What's Different?
HDB Flat
- •Landlord must obtain HDB approval before subletting
- •Maximum occupancy rules apply (typically 6 persons)
- •Minimum subletting period: 6 months
- •Approval must be renewed — HDB monitors compliance
- •Non-citizen tenants subject to additional restrictions
Private Property
- •No HDB approval needed — landlord has full discretion
- •No occupancy cap (subject to building rules)
- •Minimum tenancy period varies by property
- •Short-term rentals (Airbnb) still prohibited
- •More flexibility on lease terms and custom clauses
Stamp Duty on Singapore Tenancy Agreements
All tenancy agreements in Singapore are subject to stamp duty payable to IRAS. The duty must be paid within 14 days of signing if the agreement is signed in Singapore, or within 30 days if signed overseas.
| Lease Period | Stamp Duty Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to 1 year | 0.4% of total rent |
| 1 to 3 years | 0.4% of average annual rent |
| More than 3 years | 0.4% of average annual rent × 4 |
Stamp duty is typically borne by the tenant. An unstamped agreement is not admissible as evidence in court — making it legally unenforceable until stamped. Calculate on IRAS →
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Frequently Asked Questions
What users say
David T.
HDB Landlord, Tampines
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Priya R.
Tenant, Buona Vista
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Marcus L.
Private Property Owner, Bishan
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Sarah K.
Room Landlord, Jurong West
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James W.
HDB Owner, Woodlands
“The inventory list feature is brilliant. My previous tenant dispute was exactly about what furniture was included. This time everything is documented.”
Aisha M.
Tenant, Novena
“Free preview is great — could see exactly what I was getting before paying $10. Stamp duty reminder saved me from missing the 14-day window too.”
Reviews are from verified users of SG Tenancy Agreement Generator.