Renting is the easiest way to get to know an area before you decide to buy. This guide covers what to expect, what to check, and how to protect your deposit.
What you will usually need
- Your passport and visa or pass. Landlords and buildings may ask for proof of income.
- A deposit and the first month’s rent before you get the keys. Deposit amounts are agreed between you and the landlord, not fixed by law, so read the agreement.
- A written tenancy agreement signed by you and the landlord or their authorised agent.
The tenancy agreement
- Parties. Is the landlord the registered owner? Ask to see proof. An agent should show their authority to let.
- Term and renewal. Check the length, any option to renew and how rent can change.
- Early exit. Check whether there is a clause letting you leave early with notice, and on what terms.
- Repairs. Who pays for what.
- Inventory. Attach a list of contents and their condition, with dated photos.
- Stamping. Tenancy agreements are among the documents liable to stamp duty; duty on instruments creating interests in property, such as tenancies, is charged according to value. Sumber: LHDN, Overview of Stamp Duty. Last checked 26 Sep 2026. Ask who pays and get the stamped copy.
Agent fees on rentals
For lettings of up to three years, the Board’s published scale sets a maximum agent fee equal to 1.25 months’ gross rent, with a minimum of one month’s rent. Sumber: Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers, scale of fees. Last checked 26 Sep 2026. Who pays is agreed in writing.
Before you pay
- View the property in person, or have someone you trust do it. Never pay to hold a place you have not seen.
- Check the agent is registered. See choosing an agent.
- Check the bank account or phone number you are asked to pay against the police’s Semak Mule service. See scam awareness.
- Photograph any damage at move-in and send the photos to the landlord the same day.
At the end of the tenancy
Ask for a joint walk-through, return keys and access cards, settle utility bills, and ask in writing when the deposit will be returned. Keep your records.
Sumber
- LHDN, Overview of Stamp Duty. Checked 26 Sep 2026.
- Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers, fees. Checked 26 Sep 2026.
- Royal Malaysia Police, Semak Mule. Checked 26 Sep 2026.
Disemak terakhir:
Each fact above names the official source we checked and the date we checked it. Rules and figures change, so check the source again before you rely on it.
This guide is general information written by Home Hunter Malaysia in its own words. It is not legal, tax, financial, immigration or investment advice. Rules and figures change, so check the official sources listed above and speak to a licensed professional before you act.
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