THE Housing Board (HDB) said it had received occasional complaints from sublet tenants.

Its advice to these tenants: Lodge a police report if they feel they have been cheated.

Alternatively, these tenants could also claim against the owner for breach of contract in the courts or the Small Claims Tribunal, depending on the quantum of the claim, HDB said.

A HDB spokesman added: "As the subletting of flats or rooms is a private arrangement between the flat owners and tenants, the two parties will have to settle their differences and disputes.

"The parties involved may wish to consult their own solicitors on their rights and liabilities under the subletting agreement with each other."

HDB advised flat owners and tenants to check, understand and agree on the terms and conditions of the rental agreement before signing it.

Tips to potential tenants:

Ask flat owner to show you a copy of HDB's in-principle approval letter or approval letter to sublet the flat.

Ask flat owner to show documentary proof, such as Agreement for Lease, Service & Conservancy Charges or mortgage loan instalment payment booklet/annual loan statements to further verify ownership.

Include condition in tenancy agreement stating that validity of agreement is subject to HDB's approval.

This article was first published in The New Paper on October 8, 2008.