Minor Repair Clause Negotiation Tips for Singapore Tenants | Homejourney

Negotiate your tenancy agreement's Minor Repair Clause to cap tenant costs at S$150–S$200 per repair, excluding fair wear and tear, while clarifying what qualifies as 'minor'. This protects Singapore tenants from unexpected bills for issues like leaking taps or light bulbs.[1][4]

At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety and trust in rentals by verifying listings and connecting you with agents who review clauses like this. This cluster article dives into tactical negotiation tips, linking back to our Complete Guide to Tenant Rights in Singapore 2026 for full coverage.

What is the Minor Repair Clause in Singapore Tenancy Agreements?

The Minor Repair Clause assigns tenants responsibility for small fixes in the rental property, up to a negotiated monetary cap, typically S$150–S$300 per repair.[1][4][6] Landlords cover costs above the cap, after prior consent, and handle major repairs like structural work or appliance replacements.[1]

This clause is not mandated by law but follows the non-binding CEA tenancy agreement template, making it fully negotiable.[1] Common examples include replacing light bulbs, fixing leaky taps, minor wall touch-ups, or small appliance faults.[1] It excludes fair wear and tear—natural deterioration from normal use, like faded paint or carpet wear.[9]

For HDB flats, caps often sit at S$200–S$250; private properties may exceed S$300, depending on unit age and negotiation.[1] Always clarify if the cap applies per item, per visit, or per incident to avoid disputes.[1]

Why Negotiate the Minor Repair Clause? Key Tenant Benefits

Strong negotiation limits your out-of-pocket expenses and prevents landlords from shifting major repair costs to you. In Singapore's market-driven rentals, without rent control, clear clauses protect against disputes resolved at the Small Claims Tribunal (SCT), which handles claims up to S$20,000 (or S$30,000 with consent).[1][3]

Homejourney agents spot unbalanced clauses during reviews, ensuring tenant-friendly terms. A well-negotiated clause also ties into broader Tenant Rights for Repairs & Maintenance in Singapore | Homejourney ">tenant rights for repairs & maintenance, emphasizing landlord duties for habitability.[3]

5 Actionable Minor Repair Clause Negotiation Tips for Tenants

Approach negotiations professionally—landlords appreciate proactive tenants. Use these steps during tenancy agreement (TA) reviews:

Propose a Low Cap: Start at S$150 per repair, citing CEA norms and HDB precedents (S$200 average).[1][4] If rejected, settle at S$200 max. Example: "Tenant covers up to S$150 per minor repair; landlord reimburses excess within 7 days with receipts."[1]
Define 'Minor' Explicitly: List examples in the TA: light bulbs, washers, switches. Exclude aircon servicing (often separate) or anything over S$150.[1][4] Reference Homejourney's aircon services for maintenance checklists.
Secure a Problem-Free Period: Negotiate 14–30 days from move-in for landlord to fix pre-existing defects free-of-charge. Document via photos/videos.[1][6]
Mandate Prior Consent & Reimbursement: Require landlord's written approval for repairs over the cap; they pay balance. Specify 7-day reimbursement.[1]
Exclude Fair Wear and Tear: Explicitly state it's not tenant liability. Add: "Tenant not responsible for normal deterioration."[9]

Present your edits in a tracked-changes document. If renting via Homejourney, our rental search filters tenant-friendly listings.

Step-by-Step Negotiation Process

Follow this framework before signing:

Review Draft TA: Highlight the clause on day one. Note cap, definitions, exclusions.
Research Comparables: Check recent HDB/private rentals on Homejourney's projects directory for standard terms.
Counter-Propose: Email polite revisions: "To align with CEA guidelines, I suggest capping at S$150."
Compromise Strategically: Trade minor repair cap for diplomatic clause if needed (see pillar guide).
Get It in Writing: Stamp the TA (0.4% duty for 1+ year leases) and keep copies.[3]

For financing rentals, review bank rates via Homejourney.

Red Flags and What to Do If Negotiations Fail

Watch for vague definitions (e.g., no cap specified), high thresholds (S$500+), or no exclusions for wear/tear.[1] If unresolvable, walk away—Singapore's market has options on Homejourney.

Post-move-in disputes? Document issues, notify in writing, escalate to Community Mediation Centre, then SCT.[1][3] Connect with Homejourney agents for evidence support, linking to our Property Damage Claims: Tenant vs Landlord Evidence Guide | Homejourney ">property damage claims guide.

FAQ: Minor Repair Clause Questions for Singapore Tenants

Q1: Can I negotiate the minor repair cap down from S$300?
A: Yes, aim for S$150–S$200, standard in 2025–2026 agreements. Landlords often agree for reliable tenants.[1][8]

Q2: Who pays if a repair exceeds the cap?
A: You pay up to the cap; landlord covers excess after written consent and provides reimbursement within 7 days.[1][4]

Q3: Does the clause apply to aircon servicing?
A: Negotiate separately—often tenant for minor cleans, landlord for major repairs. Use Homejourney's aircon services.[4]

Q4: What if the landlord ignores major repairs?
A: Written notice first; escalate to SCT if habitability affected. See our pillar guide.[3][7]

Q5: Is fair wear and tear my responsibility?
A: No—exclude it explicitly. Examples: scuffed floors from normal use.[9]

Disclaimer: This is general guidance, not legal advice. Consult professionals for your situation. Homejourney verifies info for trust and safety.

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