What started as a frustrating experience for one Malaysian tenant has now turned into a small win, not just for themselves, but for many others renting in Malaysia.
Recently, a Threads post went viral after a user shared how they managed to successfully claim back RM1,478 in agent fees, something they later learned they were not supposed to pay in the first place.
Paid RM1.4K in agent fees as a tenant
According to the post, the user had paid around RM1,400 in agent fees back in 2023 while renting a property in Bayan Lepas, Penang.
At the time, they did not question the charge.
However, after coming across discussions online, they realised that tenants typically should not be the ones paying agent fees, unless there is a clear agreement stating otherwise.
This prompted them to take action.
Filed official complaint with BOVEA
The tenant then proceeded to lodge a formal complaint via email to the Board of Valuers, Appraisers, Estate Agents and Property Managers (BOVEA).
In the complaint, they stated that:
- They were a tenant, not the party who appointed the agent
- There was no written agreement consenting to the fee
- The agent had still proceeded to charge them
They also expressed concern that the action could be misleading and potentially against professional guidelines.
Agent asked to withdraw complaint
Screenshots shared in the thread also showed conversations between the tenant and the agent.
At one point, the agent allegedly asked the tenant to withdraw the complaint, even suggesting they could discuss the matter.
However, the tenant stood firm, stating that they would only do so after receiving a full refund.
Full refund of RM1,478 issued
Not long after, the agent transferred the full amount of RM1,478 back to the tenant via bank transfer.
A payment receipt was also shared as proof.
With that, the tenant confirmed that the matter had been resolved.
Netizens say it’s a common issue
The post quickly gained traction online, with many Malaysians sharing similar experiences.
Some claimed that certain agents particularly in areas like Penang and Johor have been known to charge tenants agent fees, even though it is widely understood that fees should be paid by the party who appoints the agent, usually the property owner.
Others admitted they had paid such fees before without knowing they could question it.
A reminder to know your rights
One commenter even cited guidelines under Malaysian property regulations, stating that:
- Agents can only collect fees from the party who appoints them
- They should not charge multiple parties in the same transaction
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