Rental home viewing checklist
A practical rental-viewing and tenancy-agreement checklist for Sibu and Kuching.
Before you pay a booking fee or deposit, confirm who is legally entitled to rent out the property. Ask for the owner's full name and an appropriate identifying or registration detail, or written authority if an agent or representative is signing. The tenant's full legal name and identification details should also be recorded accurately in the agreement.
The agreement should clearly state the complete property address, any parking bay or storage area, the tenancy start and end dates, monthly rent, payment due date, payment method and the account holder receiving payment. Put every deposit in writing: the amount, purpose, when it may be used, the refund timeline and any agreed deductions. Always keep payment proof.
Attach an inventory for furniture, appliances, keys, access cards and included fittings. On handover day, take dated photos or video, record water and electricity meter readings, and note existing damage. Both sides should keep the same signed inventory.
Agree who pays utilities, assessment-related charges, internet and routine maintenance. The agreement should also cover repairs, emergency access, guest or subletting rules, renewal terms, notice period, early termination and how disputes will be handled. Read every clause before signing; do not sign a blank or incomplete document.
For Malaysia, tenancy documents may be subject to stamp-duty requirements. From 1 January 2026, LHDN's STSDS rollout includes lease and tenancy instruments. Decide in writing who will handle the submission and cost, and check the current LHDN process or obtain professional advice for your situation. This guide is a practical checklist, not legal advice.
Before transferring money, confirm the landlord or authorised representative, the address, tenancy term, deposit breakdown, utilities, repairs and inventory in writing. At key handover, photograph meters, defects and supplied items together with the other party. Keep the signed agreement, receipts and messages for the full tenancy and use a traceable payment method.