Moving out generally involves notifying the owner, cancelling internet and other services, cleaning and reinstatement, a unit inspection, returning keys and settling the deposit.
In particular, notice periods and early-termination conditions depend on your tenancy agreement. Once a move or repatriation is confirmed, first check the termination clauses in your tenancy agreement.
STEP 1Give notice
STEP 2Cancel services and clean
STEP 3Inspect the unit
STEP 4Return keys
STEP 5Settle the deposit
1 | First check the tenancy’s move-out and termination conditions
Once you decide to move out, notify your agent or owner in accordance with the tenancy agreement. Many agreements require written notice two to three months before the tenancy ends.
The notice period runs from the date notice is given. Many owners do not prorate rent, so confirm the move-out date and final rent charge in advance.
If using an Expat Clause to end the tenancy early, notify the owner by a recorded email or message as soon as repatriation is confirmed. Generally, submit formal documents such as the employer’s transfer order or termination letter within one week.
For early termination and notice deadlines, also see Points to check in a tenancy agreement.
2 | Cancel internet and other services
Once the move-out date is set, arrange cancellation of TV, internet and other services contracted in your name.
Internet cancellation in particular may take about a month. TIME Internet customers can cancel through the Selfcare portal.
→ For the procedure, see TIME’s Q&A page
3 | Cleaning and reinstatement
When moving out, you must arrange professional cleaning and submit receipts confirming it was completed before departure. Self-cleaning is not accepted. The tenancy agreement specifies the required cleaning and reinstatement.
Typical work includes curtains, mattresses and sofa cleaning, general interior cleaning, air-conditioner chemical cleaning and gas top-ups, and replacing light bulbs. Booking cleaners two weeks to a month before moving helps preparations run smoothly.
Request move-out cleaning rather than a standard cleaning service. The scope and finish standards differ, so it costs more, but can reduce the likelihood of the owner requiring further cleaning after you leave.
Curtains: around RM0.80/sq ft
King-size mattress: around RM140
Three-seat sofa: around RM180
Gas top-up
Check the cleaning and maintenance specified in your agreement and finish the required work before moving out.
If time or other circumstances prevent completion, the owner may agree to arrange the work. Cleaning and repair costs may then be deducted from the deposit, with an additional arrangement fee.
→ For cleaner and air-conditioner contractor contacts, see this article.
Avoid scheduling the move-out inspection immediately before your flight home.
The inspection checks the unit and its contents, and questions may arise on the day. Leave a buffer before your flight; if needed, consider a hotel for the final night. From our experience with many local move-outs, allowing extra time can significantly reduce stress.
4 | Unit inspection and return of keys
At move-out, the agent and owner inspect furniture, inventory, damage and the unit’s condition. Allow approximately 30 minutes to one hour. Afterwards, return keys, access cards and other items to complete the handover.
Issues missed on the day may be raised later. If you stay until departure for a late-night or early-morning flight, an inspection may be arranged in advance.
Not all settlement amounts are necessarily finalised at inspection. Deposit settlement may follow confirmation of final utilities and repair costs.
5 | Deposit refund
The deposit balance is refunded after settling final utilities, required repairs and other charges. The refund deadline is set by the tenancy agreement; many contracts specify within one month of moving out.
Final utility charges are deducted from the utility deposit. Any repair costs are confirmed in advance and deducted from the security deposit, with the balance returned.
Refunds are generally made to a Malaysian bank account. If you need a refund to a Japanese account, KL Fudousan can act as intermediary for a fee. Please discuss this before moving out.
For Japanese-language support subscribers
Clients subscribed to Japanese-language support also receive assistance at move-out. We help coordinate with the owner, the move-out process and deposit settlement according to the contract.
Without Japanese-language support, clients generally communicate directly with the owner themselves after moving in and when moving out.
Before moving out: checklist
Contact us with questions about finding a rental or Japanese-language support.