Prepare early so the final handover goes smoothly and avoidable deposit disputes are less likely.
Practical checklist updated: 13 October 2026 · Singapore
This is the kind of reminder JC shares with tenants before handover. Not every item is a universal legal requirement. Check your signed tenancy agreement (TA), inventory and any written arrangements with your landlord.
Tick each task as you complete it. You can print this page and use it during your final preparation. The ticks are for your current session and are not saved.
Pay extra attention to the kitchen hood and grease filter (degrease where necessary), kitchen cabinets, hob/stove, oven, refrigerator, bathrooms and other frequently overlooked areas. Clean to the condition reasonably required by your agreement, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Clean the interior drum, detergent drawer and rubber door seal, including trapped residue or mould where accessible. Follow appliance care instructions.
Gather previous aircon servicing invoices. If the TA requires a final servicing before handover, arrange it and keep the receipt. Frequency and responsibility depend on the TA.
Check whether the TA requires professional curtain cleaning or dry-cleaning at move-out. If required, arrange it in time and keep the receipts.
Test light bulbs and fittings. Replace failed bulbs or damaged items where the TA allocates responsibility to the tenant; report wiring or fixture faults rather than attempting unsafe repairs.
Check for loose taps, leaks, damaged fittings and other reported issues. Follow the TA's minor-repair cap, exclusions and approval process. Do not assume every leak or fault is a tenant charge.
Arrange cancellation or transfer of your broadband, TV and other personal subscriptions. Confirm equipment return requirements and any contractual notice or termination fees.
Confirm with the landlord who will close, open or take over the SP Group account and on which date. A landlord takeover is one possible arrangement, not an automatic process. Record final meter readings and keep bills.
Use the original signed inventory and condition report to account for furniture, appliances, keys, access cards, remotes and other supplied items. Compare pre-existing marks with current condition.
Arrange a joint inspection with the landlord or appointed agent. Take dated photos/videos, record agreed findings and return keys/access devices with a written acknowledgement.
After handover, ask for an itemised explanation and evidence for any proposed deductions. The landlord should return the balance according to the signed TA. A full refund depends on the final account and contractual obligations.
What happens at handover?
JC or another appointed representative can conduct a final inspection with you, comparing the property against the original inventory and condition report. Any outstanding matters should be documented clearly, with supporting photos and an agreed follow-up where possible.
Security deposit: the landlord reconciles outstanding rent, bills and any properly supported deductions under the TA, then returns the balance within the agreed timeframe. Completing the checklist does not automatically guarantee a full refund.
See the full End-of-Tenancy Timeline → Handover & Inventory →
What should happen before key return?
The tenant forgets a gate remote and required servicing records.
What to do next
- Review cleaning and reinstatement terms.
- Arrange inspection and meter readings.
- Return all access items with acknowledgment.
JC’s practical takeaway: A checklist prevents avoidable disputes.
Useful official reference
CEA's residential tenancy agreement templates are a reference for discussing and recording the parties' responsibilities. Your actual signed TA controls the agreed obligations, subject to applicable law.
General educational information, not legal advice. Cleaning standards, servicing, repairs, utilities and deposit refunds depend on the signed tenancy agreement and the circumstances. A landlord or agent should not treat this list as adding new terms after signing.
What should I do before the final inspection?
The tenant has cleaned the home but left personal items and forgotten the required servicing receipts.
What I would check next
- Review reinstatement and cleaning obligations well before the last day.
- Remove belongings and return all keys, cards and remotes.
- Prepare receipts, photos and meter readings.
- Attend a joint inspection where possible and record outstanding issues.
JC's takeaway: Clear communication and a dated written record help both sides avoid preventable disagreements.
How do you avoid last-minute handover disputes?
The tenant has packed everything but forgotten light bulbs, aircon receipts and the access card.
What I would check first
Review reinstatement and cleaning clauses; test fittings; gather receipts; photograph the empty unit; arrange final inspection and return all keys.
JC's practical takeaway: A checklist started several weeks before expiry is easier than rushing on the final day.