Seeking Your Advise - Agent trying to deduct security deposit

[chukanapri]

Hi,

I need your advise. Here is the story:
1. The unit handover is on 11-Dec-2016 at 6pm. The document signed off with only one item "Curtain" pending and need to install by 12-Dec-2016 at 6pm
2. By 12-Dec-2016 at 6pm the "Curtain" has been installed as agreed
3. 8 days later, agent reported that the toilet door knob is spoils and need to get contractor to replace. I'm very sure that the door is working fine. I'm trying to show the agent how it work, but they refused my proposal and not allow me to go in the unit. They keeping deduct security deposit.

Can you please suggest:
a. Is this common that agent/landlord report any issue after handover?
b. Does deduction is legal while we don't have it in handover document?
c. Can you suggest if I can take legal action to against this issue?

Rgds,
Chukanapri

[chukanapri]

Any suggestion please.

[brian_singapore]

My understanding is once the hand-over sign-off is done, anything after is the landlord's problem.

If he does deduct from your deposit, there is a small claims tribunal (not sure if I have the name right) where you should be able to seek re-imbursement.

How much money is he holding back?

[chukanapri]

Thank you so much brian_singapore. You give me some point to go.

Up until now landlord did not refund security deposit yet. The due date will be 25-Dec-2016. As of 20-Dec-2016 the deduct amount is $60. I feel that landlord+agent trying to create a new ridiculous thing to deduct some more.

Can you suggest if I can report/complain the agent to Council for Estate Agencies (https://www.cea.gov.sg/)?

Rdgs,
Chukanapri

[brian_singapore]

I don't know if this is something the agent should be reported for or not. Others may be able to comment. I suspect so. And I can't think of any reason not to complain

I would however, state very strongly this wasn't covered in the signed off handover paper, you won't be paying for it and you will be taking it forward if the landlord doesn't give your full deposit back.

This may be enough to keep the landlord from withholding as the landlord may decide its not worth the hassle.

[chukanapri]

Thank you once again brian_singapore. Very much appreciated your suggestion.

I would be happy if other member can give me some clue.

Rgds,
Chukanapri