Short-term rentals refers to the use of residential properties, such as condominiums, flats, bungalows, or terrace houses, for accommodation lasting less than three consecutive months. This often includes stays by short-term visitors, such as tourists, for a few days. However, Short-term rentals is illegal in Singapore under the law, as all residential properties are designated for long-term residence. Therefore, this write up will focus on a form of short term rental type popularly known as serviced apartments in Singapore.

Serviced Apartments (SAs) are fully equipped self-contained apartments featuring kitchenettes or full kitchens. They typically offer additional support services like concierge assistance, shared dining spaces, housekeeping, and laundry facilities for guests.

In Singapore, subletting short-term rentals is illegal for both property owners and tenants. However the type of rental operated in Singapore is serviced apartment and the exception for subletting it is only possible when the entire property is rented by the tenant and also if necessary permissions are obtained from URA and the landlord and its operations meet all the requirements set out for SAs, including size, zoning, and communal facility standards.

There is

In Singapore, serviced apartments are subject to stringent health and safety standards to ensure the well-being of guests and residents. These standards encompass various aspects, including building safety, fire safety, public health, and operational guidelines.

1. Building and Fire Safety:

• Building Regulations: Serviced apartments must comply with the Building Control Act, which mandates adherence to structural safety, accessibility, and maintenance standards.
• Fire Safety: The Fire Safety Act requires the implementation of fire safety measures, such as installing fire alarms, extinguishers, and clear evacuation routes. Regular fire drills and inspections by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) are also mandated.

2. Public Health and Hygiene:

• Environmental Public Health Act: This act enforces standards related to sanitation, waste management, and pest control to maintain a hygienic environment within serviced apartments.
• Infectious Disease Control: Operators must adhere to guidelines set by the Ministry of Health (MOH) for preventing and managing infectious diseases, including protocols for cleaning, disinfection, and handling health emergencies.

3. Operational Standards:

• Licensing Requirements: Serviced apartments operating as lodging facilities are required to obtain a license from the Hotels Licensing Board (HLB) and comply with the Hotels Act and Hotels Licensing Regulations. This includes maintaining a guest register and reporting guest information to national authorities when necessary.
• Workplace Safety and Health: The Workplace Safety and Health Act mandates that operators ensure a safe environment for both staff and guests, covering aspects like hazard management and emergency preparedness.

4. Industry Best Practices:

• Serviced Apartments Association (SAA): While not a regulatory body, the SAA promotes best practices among its members, focusing on service quality, safety, and operational excellence. Membership requires adherence to specific operating standards, providing an additional layer of assurance to guests.

By complying with these regulations and guidelines, serviced apartment operators in Singapore ensure a safe, healthy, and comfortable environment for all occupants.

The nationwide sustainability requirements for serviced apartments in Singapore align with the Singapore Green Plan 2030, focusing on sustainable development goals for buildings and energy use. The following key aspects are relevant:

Key Sustainability Requirements for Serviced Apartments:

1. Green Building Standards:

• Serviced apartments are required to meet the Singapore Green Building Masterplan standards, which aim to:

    - Increase energy efficiency in buildings.  - Utilize environmentally friendly construction materials.

  • Achieve high Green Mark ratings for buildings.

1. Energy Efficiency:
   • Emphasis on cleaner energy usage and increased energy efficiency to lower the carbon footprint.
   • Encouragement for the adoption of renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels.
2. Waste Reduction:
   • Targets a 30% reduction of waste sent to landfills by 2030, promoting recycling and sustainable waste management practices in serviced apartments.
3. Carbon Emissions Reduction:
   • Encourage steps toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions by adopting energy-efficient systems and implementing eco-friendly building designs.
4. Public-Private Collaboration:
   • Collaboration between government, businesses, and individuals to co-create and implement sustainable solutions in the serviced apartment sector.
5. Support for Green Initiatives:
   • Access to funding such as the SG Eco Fund to support community-led sustainability projects.
6. Monitoring and Updates:
   • Regular refinement of strategies based on technological advancements and engagement with stakeholders.

For more information on sustainability initiatives in Singapore, visit:

• Singapore Green Plan 2030
• Singapore Green Building Masterplan

​

To operate a serviced apartment in Singapore, planning permission must be obtained from the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). The process involves several steps, as outlined below:

The