Singapore Expats

I used an agent to find and act as my agent a few years ago and to trigger renewal several times. Still in same place.

Now it seems they are acting on behalf of landlord who considers them his agent so I am left without representation. Basically they switched roles without telling me.

Is this allowed and is there anything than can be done.

Thanks for any help on this matter.

Agent should only represent one side, and shouldn't switch sides. He shouldn't be protecting you one day 1 and later changed to protecting the owner. The representation will then be very blurry especially if a problem pops up and you see him taking sides with the owner. I think you should have a word with your agent.

It’s a conflict of interest for the agent to represent both sides.

Nope, agent cannot represent both sides

https://www.cea.gov.sg/docs/default-sou ... ransaction.

agent cannot represent both side. will get fine and jail.

refer to above link.

Former property agent Tan Chai Sern Ryan was recently convicted in Court for representing both the tenant and the landlord in two rental transactions that each involved the lease of a HDB bedroom. He was also convicted of handling money related to one of the rental transactions.

The Court sentenced Tan to a total fine of $12,500, in default 10 weeks’ imprisonment.

Right. An agent can, however assist any one party in selling their property and then renting/buying a new one. That’s an entirely different story.

Thanks for replies.

Landlord referred to them as his agent - maybe slip of the tongue. Agent refuses to answer my question about it. Not sure what I can do that won't cause me grief. Tempted to let tenancy run its course. Luckily I have the condition of the place when I moved in well documented with photos, so hopefully not too many issues when I do move.

the easy way to tell the agent represent which side is, the last contract who paid the commission.
If you and the landlord, both side paying to the same agent. Then something not right.
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