Compiled by: Tharmini Kenas tharmini@thestar.com.my

The refund of the deposit shall be within fourteen (14) days from the date of the expiry of the tenancy agreement

Ask Me Anything is a platform for readers to ask about all things property. If you have any inquiries, key in your questions at bit.ly/AskMeAnythingProperty.

Messrs Eunice Tan & Partners founder Eunice Tan answers readers’ queries regarding issues concerning landlords and tenants.

Q1: When should the landlord return my deposit money, if it is not stated in the contract?

A1: If it is not stated in the contract, you may rely on reasonable time. In common practice, the refund of the deposit shall be within fourteen (14) days from the date of the expiry of the tenancy agreement or the expiry of the termination notice from the tenant.

Q2: I am in a situation where the tenancy agreement had been drafted that deposit for water and electricity bill cannot be used to settle the last rental, but the tenant is requesting to use it as final rental payment. What should I do?

A2: Do you refer to the “deposits for water and electricity bill” as utility deposit in the tenancy agreement? It is not advisable to do so as the tenant may have outstanding utility bills yet to be paid. The landlord has the right to refer back to the tenancy agreement as well as the terms and conditions which have been mutually agreed upon by both the parties.

Disclaimer:

All data and information provided are for informational purposes only. All information is provided on an as-is basis. All users are strongly encouraged to seek professional advice before relying on any data or information provided.

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