A GUIDE FOR TENANTS

What can YOU do to help us push for the RTA?

1. Sign our petition

2. Write a letter to your MP (use our template)

3. Share your experiences as a tenant here

4. Know your rights as a tenant. Check out our guide below!

Know Your Rights as a Tenant in Malaysia

Renting a home should be a fair and secure process, but many tenants in Malaysia face issues like unfair evictions, withheld deposits, neglected repairs and discriminatory practices. While Malaysia doesn’t have a dedicated Residential Tenancy Act yet, several laws provide protection for tenants. Knowing your rights can help you avoid being taken advantage of and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Key Laws That Protect Tenants

Tenancy agreements in Malaysia are mainly governed by contract law, but these existing laws offer important legal protections:

Contracts Act 1950 – Governs the enforceability of tenancy agreements.
Civil Law Act 1956 – Covers disputes over unpaid rent.
Distress Act 1951 – Prevents landlords from unlawfully seizing a tenant’s belongings.
Specific Relief Act 1950 – Prohibits landlords from forcefully evicting tenants without a court order.
National Land Code 1965 – Defines tenancy (less than three years) and lease agreements (more than three years), which affects tenants' legal standing if the property is sold.

Your Rights as a Tenant

To protect yourself, always ensure you have a written tenancy agreement that clearly states:

Monthly rent, payment terms, and due dates
Security deposit amount and conditions for its return
Responsibilities for repairs and maintenance
Penalties for late payments
Whether subletting is allowed
Conditions for early termination

Before signing, inspect the property for any damages and ensure all verbal agreements are documented. It’s also advisable to stamp your tenancy agreement at the LHDN (Inland Revenue Board) to make it legally valid.

Evictions & Disputes

Your landlord cannot:

Increase your rent mid-tenancy unless the agreement allows it
Change the locks or force you out without a court order (Specific Relief Act 1950)
Deduct from your deposit for normal wear and tear

If disputes arise, try to resolve them through discussion first. If needed, seek legal advice or file a claim with the Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia if your case involves unfair practices.

By knowing your rights and responsibilities, you can rent with confidence and protect yourself from unfair treatment. Stay informed, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to seek legal help when necessary!