Aston Residence Tenant Guide: Lease and Move-In Tips
Renting at Aston Residence in District 17 offers tenants a rare opportunity to live in a premium detached cluster house development with exceptional space and amenities. Whether you're an expat relocating to Singapore or a local family seeking a spacious rental home, understanding the lease requirements and move-in process at Aston Residence ensures a smooth transition into your new home. Homejourney prioritizes your safety and confidence throughout the rental journey by providing verified, transparent information about lease terms, security requirements, and practical move-in guidance.
Understanding Aston Residence Rental Basics
Aston Residence is a 28-unit detached cluster house development located on Jalan Loyang Besar in Changi, within the mature Pasir Ris estate of District 17. The development features rare 946-year leasehold cluster houses, each offering approximately 4,690 square feet of living space across three-and-a-half storeys with 5 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. Currently, select units are available for rental, making this an attractive option for tenants seeking substantial family homes with modern amenities and a secure, well-managed community environment.
The development is managed by professional property management services that ensure maintenance of common facilities and security protocols. Homejourney verifies all project details to guarantee you have accurate information before making your rental commitment, prioritizing your confidence in every decision.
Typical Lease Terms at Aston Residence
Most rental agreements at Aston Residence follow standard Singapore tenancy practices with lease periods typically ranging from 1 to 2 years. First-time renters should understand that landlords often prefer longer lease commitments, particularly for premium properties like these cluster houses. A 2-year lease provides landlords with stability while offering tenants the security of fixed rental rates throughout the lease period.
When negotiating your lease, clarify whether the lease is fixed-rate or subject to annual reviews. Most landlords in District 17 developments include annual rent adjustment clauses (typically 2-3% increases), so ensure this is explicitly stated in your agreement. Request a copy of the signed lease at least one week before your move-in date to allow time for clarification of any terms.
Security Deposits and Financial Requirements
Standard practice at Aston Residence requires tenants to provide a security deposit equivalent to two months' rent, held in trust by the landlord or property agent. This deposit serves as protection against damages beyond normal wear and tear and unpaid rental arrears. Homejourney recommends requesting a written inventory and photographic record of the property condition before handing over your deposit—this protects both you and the landlord by establishing baseline conditions.
Additional financial considerations include the first month's rent (due on move-in day) and agent fees if applicable, typically ranging from 0.5 to 1 month's rent shared between landlord and tenant. Request an itemized breakdown of all costs before signing. For rental units at Aston Residence, monthly rent typically ranges from S$4,500 to S$6,500 depending on unit condition, furnishing level, and specific amenities included.
Diplomatic Clause and Lease Flexibility
If you're an expat on a diplomatic posting or working for an international organization, request inclusion of a diplomatic clause in your lease. This provision allows early termination without penalty if your posting ends unexpectedly. While not all landlords at Aston Residence offer this clause, it's worth negotiating, particularly for families on fixed-term international assignments. Ensure any flexibility clause is clearly documented with specific termination notice periods (typically 30-60 days) and conditions.
For standard tenants, most leases include a clause allowing termination with 2-3 months' notice after the initial lease period. Clarify these terms upfront to understand your exit options if circumstances change.
Pre-Move-In Inspection Checklist
Scheduling a comprehensive pre-move-in inspection protects your interests and establishes clear documentation of the property's condition. Homejourney recommends conducting this inspection with the landlord or agent present, ideally 2-3 days before your official move-in date. Use a detailed checklist covering:
- All walls, ceilings, and flooring for damage, stains, or wear
- Windows, doors, and locks for proper function and security
- Plumbing fixtures, water pressure, and drainage in all bathrooms
- Air conditioning units, testing cooling capacity in each room
- Electrical outlets, switches, and lighting throughout the property
- Kitchen appliances (if included) for functionality and cleanliness
- Furniture condition (if furnished rental)
- Hot water system and water heater operation
- Security system, alarm codes, and gate access mechanisms
Document any existing damage with photographs and written descriptions. Request that the landlord sign off on this inspection report, creating a binding record of the property's pre-tenancy condition. This documentation is essential for recovering your security deposit without disputes when you move out.
Essential Move-In Documentation
Before collecting keys, ensure you have received and reviewed all critical documentation. Your rental package should include: the signed lease agreement, property inspection report, utility account transfer instructions, security system codes and instructions, parking access details, and emergency contact numbers for maintenance and management. Request copies of all utility bills from the previous three months to understand typical consumption and costs.
At Aston Residence, you'll need to arrange utility account transfers for electricity, water, and gas. Contact SP Group for electricity and water services, providing your tenancy agreement as proof of occupancy. Most utilities require 2-3 business days to process transfers, so initiate this immediately after signing your lease. Homejourney recommends taking meter readings on your move-in day and having the landlord confirm these readings to establish your baseline for utility billing.
Utility Costs and Monthly Expenses
Beyond your monthly rent, budget for utilities and maintenance costs typical for a 4,690 square foot cluster house in District 17. Electricity costs typically range from S$250-S$400 monthly depending on air conditioning usage and appliance efficiency. Water bills average S$50-S$80 monthly, while gas (if applicable) adds S$30-S$50. Internet and cable services add approximately S$80-S$150 monthly.
Clarify with your landlord which utilities are included in your rent and which you'll pay directly. Most Aston Residence rentals are unfurnished, meaning you're responsible for all utilities. Some landlords include maintenance of common facilities in the rent, while others charge separate maintenance fees (typically S$100-S$200 monthly). Request written confirmation of all included services and additional charges before move-in.
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities
Singapore's tenancy framework protects both landlords and tenants through the Housing and Development Act. As a tenant, you have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, timely maintenance of essential services, and return of your security deposit within 30 days of lease termination (minus documented damages). You're responsible for maintaining the property in good condition, paying rent on time, and notifying your landlord of maintenance issues promptly.
Homejourney emphasizes transparency: request written clarification on who bears responsibility for specific maintenance items. For example, is the landlord responsible for air conditioning unit servicing, or is this your responsibility? At Aston Residence, common areas like the 120-metre swimming pool and private facilities are typically maintained by the development management, but individual unit maintenance falls to the tenant unless otherwise specified in your lease.
Furnishing and Customization Guidelines
Most Aston Residence rental units are offered unfurnished, giving you flexibility to customize your living space. However, clarify with your landlord what modifications are permitted. Typically, you can install curtains, shelving, and temporary fixtures, but permanent alterations like painting or structural changes require written landlord approval. Document any improvements you make with photographs and receipts—you may negotiate their value as deductions from security deposit return if the landlord agrees to keep them.
For air conditioning needs, ensure the existing system is serviced before move-in. If you need additional cooling capacity, consult with Aircon Services for professional assessment and installation options. Request landlord approval before installing new units, as this may affect the property's condition assessment at lease end.
Moving Day Logistics and Setup
Coordinate your move-in date with the landlord to ensure property access and avoid scheduling conflicts. Aston Residence has dedicated parking and access roads suitable for moving trucks, but confirm parking arrangements with management beforehand. The development's secure gated entrance requires visitor passes for movers—request these from your landlord at least one week before moving day.
