Rental nightmares in Malaysia

When I first moved to Malaysia, I rented an apartment in a dodgy condo building. While I was overseas travelling the place got broken into and a lot of my replaceable valuables were stolen. I spoke with the landlord who fitted a second set grill door and after that no more issues.

Apart from that, I was always a landlord and later joining several owners committees I realised that very often it is the tenants who are the problem and less so the landlords.

@Cheryl

Hi.lived in KL 9 years. The best years. Whats happening now is global. Sketchy uncaring marketing done by amateurs. Stop going to social media for property its JUNK. LIES. SCAM. CHEAP. OR doesn't exist.

Use Google reviews, you get what you pay for. If you can't afford it keep looking.

I used Dmajestic at Jkn Pudu. Awesome service. Trains,taxis, food, buses,  best prices. Im british and hard to please so try. Pud area cool for walking to wet market too. Good luck

@Cheryl

What advice would I give expats to avoid rental disasters?

Finding the right home is not only about choosing a property you like. A successful tenancy depends on selecting a reliable agent, securing the property carefully and understanding your responsibilities as a tenant.

1. Selecting a Good Agent

•    Choose a registered and experienced property agent with good knowledge of the area and the needs of expatriate tenants.

•    Confirm the agent’s identity, agency and registration details before sharing documents or transferring money.

•    Be open about your budget, preferred location, family needs, pets, commute and other essential requirements.

•    Separate your must-haves from your nice-to-haves so the agent can focus on realistic options.

•    Be cautious of online listings. Some may be outdated, unavailable or advertised at an unrealistic price simply to attract enquiries.

•    Advice from colleagues, social media and WhatsApp groups can be helpful, but it may relate to a different budget, location or market period.

•    A good agent should provide honest market advice—not simply agree with everything you want to hear.

2. Securing the Property

•    Do not rush into paying a deposit until the property, landlord and payment instructions have been properly verified.

•    Confirm that the person offering the property has the authority to rent it.

•    Ensure all agreed terms are recorded in writing, including the rental, deposits, tenancy period, renewal terms, repairs, furnishings, pets and any special conditions.

•    Read the Letter of Offer and Tenancy Agreement carefully before signing. Do not rely only on verbal assurances or WhatsApp messages.

•    Clarify who is responsible for maintenance, air-conditioning servicing, minor repairs, utilities and damage during the tenancy.

•    Inspect the property thoroughly and record its condition with dated photographs and a detailed inventory before moving in.

•    Make sure any defects, missing items or promised repairs are documented, together with an agreed completion date.

•    Keep copies of all signed documents, receipts, payment records and important correspondence.

3. Being a Good Tenant and Accepting Your Responsibilities

•    Pay the rent and utilities on time and keep clear records of every payment.

•    Take reasonable care of the property, furniture and appliances.

•    Report leaks, damage and maintenance problems promptly before they become more serious.

•    Follow the tenancy agreement and condominium or community rules.

•    Obtain the landlord’s written permission before making alterations, keeping pets or subletting the property.

•    Understand that normal wear and tear is different from damage caused by misuse or neglect.

•    Allow reasonable access for agreed inspections and repairs.

•    Before moving out, arrange a pre-inspection, settle outstanding bills and agree on any repairs required.

•    Return the property in the condition required by the tenancy agreement, allowing for fair wear and tear.

Final thought: A successful rental is a shared responsibility. The agent must provide professional guidance, the landlord must offer a safe and properly maintained home, and the tenant must respect the property and meet the obligations of the tenancy. Clear communication and written agreements are the best protection for everyone.

John Preston