Case Study: Jack, an HDB owner, recently discovered that his tenant had allowed unauthorized individuals to stay in his rental unit without informing him. Concerned and unsure of what steps to take, Jack sought advice on how to address this issue.
Question 1: What should I do if my tenant allows unauthorized individuals to stay in my HDB rental?
Answer: As the HDB owner, you are responsible for monitoring the number of tenants in your unit and ensuring that only authorized individuals occupy the premises. If you have evidence of unauthorized occupants, such as photographs or witness statements, you can serve them a legal notice to vacate the premises. Additionally, you can give the main tenant a specified period to rectify the situation and remove the unauthorized occupants. If they fail to comply, you can take further legal action to enforce eviction.
Question 2: Should I involve the police in this situation?
Answer: Depending on the circumstances, involving the police may be necessary to ensure a smooth resolution. It's advisable to contact the police and request their presence when confronting the unauthorized occupants, as they can assist in diffusing any potential conflicts that may arise.
Question 3: What should I do if I discover damages to the property caused by unauthorized occupants?
Answer: If you find damages to the property caused by unauthorized occupants, document the damages thoroughly with photographs and written descriptions. You can then deduct the cost of repairs from the tenant's security deposit, provided you have written evidence of the tenant's admission to allowing unauthorized occupants. If the security deposit does not cover the full cost of repairs, you may need to consider taking legal action against the main tenant to recover the remaining expenses.
Dealing with unauthorized sub-tenants in your HDB rental can be challenging, but by following the appropriate steps and seeking legal guidance when necessary, you can protect your property and enforce your rights as a landlord. Remember to document all interactions with tenants and unauthorized occupants and prioritize the restoration of your property to its original condition.
For any further assistance or legal advice, don't hesitate to reach out to a qualified real estate professional or legal expert specializing in landlord-tenant matter