Hello guys,

Would like to know whats the normal rate for security deposit and utility deposit?
I recently placed a booking deposit for a unit and was told after that need to pay 2 security deposit and 1 utility deposit.
However, after they send me the tenancy agreement. They asked for 3 months security deposit and utility deposit which is not we agreed at first.
We was told they insist to be 3+1 instead of previously agreed 2+1.
I was wondering is that normal? and if i want to cancel the rental can i get back my booking deposit?

normal is 2 months rental as deposit. and another half month as utility deposit.

this is normal but can even get owner offering 1 month rental as deposit only.

today is rental market. you can just reject and find another unit. many choices around.
and don't tell me you already paid the deposit without signing anything yet.

there's no market rate.

it depends on the kind of property (whether commercial or residential) and what kind of business (if non-residential) as the utilities deposit may be more if it's a F&B business or those that rack up tens of thousands of electricity bills.

Theres no standard amount, but I would think 2+0.5 and 2+1 is normal. As a landlord, I asked for and received 2+1. There is no such thing as must follow market rate. I once told an agent I'm very open minded, all also can rent. Some just must give full 12 months deposit + 2 utility/furnishing security deposit up front.

Refer back to your booking deposit form/slip. Insist on as agreed.
If for some reason you dont have one (i wont go into it) then you have to nego your way out or to drop to 2+1.

Do think carefully if your landlord is one kind.

what about the booking fee? is it refundable? i have similar case as u, we did not sign any booking form or etc, but the agent request to take a 1 month deposit as booking fee. now i want them to return to me, they refuse to do so. where to complain with such case?

You can complaint to the board of Real Estate.

But tough case, if no sign any booking form, just try to talk nicely to the boss / etc for a refund.

we do have a receipt transfer to his personal account.

Personal account is serious red flag d....

If company acc at least easier to negotiate back.

Try to contact his company.

If all else fail, use social media to make him famous....