(1)Get your evidence in one place
Tenancy Agreement, inventory list and handover notes
• Proof of the $39,000 deposit (bank transfer, receipt, messages)
• All chats/emails/call logs showing attempts to contact the landlord and agent
• Photos/videos of the unit at move-in/out (if relevant)
(2)Confirm the agent’s identity (by mobile number) and agency
a) Go to the CEA Public Register.
b) Choose the Salesperson search and select the option to search by mobile/contact number.
c) Enter the agent’s 8-digit phone number.
d) Open the profile result and note:
– Salesperson’s CEA Registration No. (format “Rxxxxxxx”)
– Estate Agency name and Licence No. (format “Lxxxxxxx”)
e) If your info “Kevin Chew L3008022J” is correct: note that “L3008022J” is an estate agency licence (PropNex Realty Pte. Ltd.), not a person’s reg no. You still need the individual’s “R” number from the register.
(3)Complain to CEA (agent conduct) — can do this concurrently
• CEA handles misconduct by licensed estate agents/salespersons (e.g., unprofessional behaviour, breaches of the Code), but does not resolve landlord-tenant disputes or order refunds.
• File online via “Report an Estate Agent/Salesperson” using Singpass. Include the agent’s name, R-number, agency name and L-number, your chronology and evidence.
CEA
Tip: CEA also reminds consumers that agents should not handle transaction monies; rent/deposits should be paid to the owner directly. If an agent collected the deposit, highlight this in your complaint.
(4)Claim your money back — choose the right forum for $39,000
A) Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) via CJTS (fast, no lawyers):
• Jurisdiction cap: up to $20,000, or up to $30,000 if both parties consent.
• If your claim is higher, you may abandon the excess to fit within the SCT limit (you can’t claim the abandoned amount later).
• File within 2 years of when the dispute arose.
Steps on CJTS: do the Pre-Filing Assessment → file claim → serve it → attend consultation/mediation → get a Tribunal Order if unresolved.
B) Magistrate’s Court (State Courts) if you want to pursue the full $39,000:
• Magistrate’s Court hears civil claims up to $60,000 under the simplified process. Consider getting legal advice.
If they still don’t pay after you win
• SCT orders are enforceable like District Court orders. You can apply to enforce (e.g., Writ of Seizure and Sale, or a Garnishee Order) through the Courts’ guides.
(5) When to also make a police report
• If you suspect a scam (e.g., impersonation or fake agent), report it. The Government’s advisory explains verifying agents and warns against paying deposits to agents.
WhatsApp me at: ABLE Toh
(65) 9856-9255
or through this link.:https://wa.me/6598569255
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