A clearer answer. A practical next step.

They serve different purposes. A landlord's utility deposit secures specified bills; a provider such as TNB may require its own account deposit. A fit-out deposit secures agreed renovation obligations. A rent-free fit-out period only exists if agreed, with clear access and rent commencement dates. It does not automatically waive utilities, service charges or other costs.

What to do next

1. Identify the account holder and recipient of every utility or fit-out deposit.
2. Write down access, fit-out and rent commencement dates, and charges that still apply.
3. Agree required approvals, work limits and deposit release conditions before renovation starts.

Do not assume a second utility deposit is automatically unnecessary or that a fit-out period will be extended if approvals are delayed; agree the specific treatment in writing.

Use the tenancy terms together with the move-in and move-out records, bills and agreed inventory. Ask for an itemised deposit statement and supporting evidence for disputed deductions. Confirm the balance and payment date in writing; neither a full refund nor automatic forfeiture can be promised for every tenancy.

What to do next

1. Arrange a joint final inspection and record the condition, meter readings, final bills and return of all keys or access cards.
2. Compare any claimed damage with the original record and agreed responsibilities; request itemised reasons, available invoices and the proposed balance/date.
3. Raise disputed items in writing and keep the evidence. If unresolved, ask a Malaysian lawyer or court registry about the appropriate civil-claim procedure for your facts.

No fixed refund period, automatic repainting charge or outcome is promised. Normal wear, damage, arrears and the proper legal route need the actual agreement, evidence and applicable law.

For an ordinary property tenancy or lease without a fine or premium under Item 49(a), each RM250 or part of average annual rent and other annual consideration attracts RM1 for a term up to 1 year, RM3 for over 1 to 3 years, RM5 for over 3 to 5 years, or RM7 for over 5 years or an indefinite term. Do not deduct the former RM2,400 band. Classification and other charges still need confirmation.

What to do next

1. Ask the lawyer or HASiL to confirm the term, annual consideration and treatment of rent changes or any premium.
2. For an instrument signed in Malaysia, arrange stamping within 30 days; use the applicable MyTax/e-Duti Setem STSDS process.
3. Confirm land-office registration and Form 15A requirements for a lease over 3 years, and keep the stamp certificate.

The old RM1/RM2/RM4 table is outdated. Premiums, multiple instruments and special consideration can change the duty; a simple estimate is not the final tax assessment or total legal fee.

Use the written terms agreed for that tenancy. Check what each payment covers, when it is due, who receives it, the receipt and the refund or deduction terms. Do not assume a commonly advertised deposit arrangement is a universal rule for every tenancy.