You've found a unit, the rent fits your budget — and then the bills start arriving. Many tenants in Singapore are caught off guard by the range of costs that sit on top of the monthly rent. This guide breaks down every additional cost you should budget for before you sign.
The security deposit is held by the landlord for the duration of the tenancy and returned (minus deductions) after you move out. The standard amount is one month's rent for a 1-year lease and two months' rent for a 2-year lease. For a $4,000/month condo on a 2-year lease, that's $8,000 tied up from day one.
Tenants in Singapore must stamp (pay stamp duty on) the Tenancy Agreement. The amount is calculated at 0.4% of the average annual rent for leases of 1–3 years. It's paid via the IRAS e-Stamping portal. This is a legal requirement — an unstamped TA cannot be used as evidence in court.
Example: If your monthly rent is $4,000 (annual = $48,000), stamp duty = $48,000 × 0.4% = $192. Modest, but don't forget it.
If a fibre broadband connection isn't already set up in the unit, you'll need to arrange installation. Most ISPs charge a one-time installation fee and may require you to commit to a 24-month plan. Plans typically range from $30–$60/month, with installation fees of $50–$100 if not waived on promotion.
Utilities are almost always the tenant's responsibility unless the listing explicitly states otherwise. Singapore's tropical climate means air conditioning runs constantly — electricity is the biggest cost. A single person in a 1-bedroom may pay $100–$150/month; a family in a 3-bedroom condo running multiple aircons can easily hit $300–$500/month in summer months.
If you're renting a condo, some landlords pass the monthly maintenance (management) fee to the tenant. This fee covers the upkeep of shared facilities — pool, gym, security, landscaping. It's usually between $250–$600/month depending on the development. Always clarify upfront whether this is included in the rent or billed separately.
Tenants are generally responsible for quarterly aircon servicing — chemical cleaning and general maintenance to keep the units running efficiently. Neglecting this voids any landlord commitment to cover repair costs. Most servicing companies offer annual contracts.
If your unit comes with a car park lot, it's not always free. Some condos charge separately for season parking. HDB season parking (for non-residents parking in HDB car parks) is charged by HDB. Confirm whether parking is included in the rent or billed separately, especially in private condos.
If you're moving from overseas or within Singapore, engaging professional movers is practically essential. Costs depend on the volume of belongings, distance, and whether packing services are included. Get at least three quotes. For a standard 2–3 bedroom move within Singapore, expect to pay $500–$1,500.
Even in a fully furnished unit, tenants often need to supplement with personal items — additional kitchen appliances, a desk lamp, bedding that fits, a shower rack, hangers, rugs. Budget a few hundred dollars for a typical move-in, more if the unit is only partially furnished.
Approximate figures for budgeting purposes only.
| Monthly rent | $4,500/month |
| Security deposit (2 months) | $9,000 upfront |
| Stamp duty (0.4% × $54,000) | $216 upfront |
| Utilities (monthly est.) | ~$220/month |
| Broadband | ~$40/month |
| Aircon servicing | ~$15/month (amortised) |
| Movers (one-off) | ~$800 |
| Supplementary furnishings (one-off) | ~$400 |
We'll find the right unit, negotiate terms, and make sure you know exactly what you're committing to — before you commit.