Frequently Asked Questions

Property agents should prepare agency agreements, disclosure statements, tenancy contracts and compliance checklists that comply with the latest Singapore regulations. Using professionally drafted templates helps ensure all essential clauses are included.

Subscribe to our newsletter and review official updates from the Council for Estate Agencies. We also offer periodic briefings and emailed bulletins highlighting key legislative amendments affecting property transactions.

Seek legal guidance when drafting or amending contracts, handling tenant or landlord disputes, or interpreting compliance standards. Early consultation helps prevent oversights and reduces procedural delays.

Yes. We provide strategic guidance on negotiation techniques, mediation approaches and documentation to resolve conflicts efficiently while protecting the interests of agents and clients.

Review the termination clause, notice periods and any obligations specified in the contract. Ensure all notices meet legal requirements and document communication for record-keeping purposes.

We welcome on-site visits at our Marina Bay Sands office by appointment. Please contact us to schedule a meeting with one of our legal specialists.

In Singapore, property lease agreements must include a signed tenancy agreement, particulars of the landlord and tenant, address of the property, term of lease, rental amount, payment schedule, maintenance clauses and any unique conditions. It is essential to verify the identity of both parties, obtain relevant permits if needed and ensure compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act. Legal advice can help ensure all mandatory provisions are covered and enforceable.

HDB transactions are governed by the Housing & Development Act and require approval from HDB for resale and subletting. There are specific eligibility criteria including caps and ethnic integration policies. Private property deals fall under the Land Titles Act and Sale of Commercial Properties Act, offering more flexibility but requiring compliance with stamp duty regulations and seller’s stamp obligations.

Property agents must be registered under the Council for Estate Agencies. They may explain standard legal clauses but cannot give formal legal opinions unless they hold a practicing certificate from the Singapore Institute of Legal Professionals. For complex issues, agents should refer clients to qualified lawyers to avoid unauthorized practice.

Agents are required to present accurate and complete information about a property’s legal status, title encumbrances, outstanding orders or notices from regulatory bodies and details of common property management agreements. Misrepresentation or omission can lead to disciplinary action under the estate agency code of conduct.

Under the Personal Data Protection Act, agents must collect personal information only for legitimate purposes, inform individuals of collection intent, secure consent, safeguard records, and destroy or anonymise data after the purpose is fulfilled. A clear privacy policy and procedures for data breach response are mandatory.

Due diligence requires verifying the land title at the Singapore Land Authority, checking caveats or encumbrances, reviewing property tax payment status, confirming compliance with fire safety and building regulations, and ensuring any development approvals are in place. Legal counsel can assist in interpreting findings.

Stamp duty in Singapore is determined by purchase price or market value, whichever is higher, and varies by buyer profile and property type. There are progressive rates for residential purchases by citizens, permanent residents and foreigners, as well as remission schemes under certain conditions. Agents should guide clients to IRAS resources.

Trust accounts must be maintained in a separate bank account designated for client funds, with detailed ledgers recording receipts and disbursements. Agents must reconcile accounts monthly, retain records for at least six years, and submit to annual audits. Mismanagement can lead to disciplinary or criminal charges.