So, you’ve finally found it—the perfect room. It’s near the MRT, the air-con is cold, and the housemates don’t look like they’ll steal your milk from the fridge. But then the landlord drops the dreaded formula: “The rental deposits are 2+1+0.5.”
If you’re a first-time renter in Malaysia, that sounds less like a rental agreement and more like a confusing math homework assignment.
At RoomGrabs, we believe renting shouldn’t feel like a heist on your bank account. In this guide, we’re breaking down exactly what these numbers mean, how much cash you actually need upfront, and how to make sure you get your money back when you leave.
What Does “2+1+0.5” Actually Mean?
In the Malaysian rental market, this is the standard “security package.” Here is the breakdown:
1. The “2” (Security Deposit)
This is typically two months’ worth of rent. Think of this as the landlord’s insurance policy. If you disappear in the middle of the night or accidentally put a hole in the wall, the landlord uses this money to cover the damages or loss of income.
- Is it refundable? Yes, provided you return the room in the same condition you found it.
2. The “1” (Advance Rental)
This is simply your first month’s rent. You pay this before you move in so that you are “paid up” for your first 30 days of living there.
- Is it refundable? No, because you are using it to stay in the room for the first month.
3. The “0.5” (Utility Deposit)
This is half a month’s rent. It’s used to cover any outstanding electricity, water, or high-speed internet bills you might leave behind.
- Is it refundable? Yes, after the landlord confirms all final bills are settled.
The “Hidden” Costs: Don’t Forget the Agreement Fee
On top of the 2+1+0.5, you will likely see a charge for the Tenancy Agreement & Stamping Fee.
In Malaysia, for a legal contract to hold up in court, it needs to be stamped by the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN). Usually, for a room rental, this costs between RM100 to RM300, depending on the rent amount and the length of the stay.
Quick Math Example:
If your dream room is RM600/month, here is what you need to prepare:
- Security Deposit (x2): RM1,200
- Advance Rental (x1): RM600
- Utility Deposit (x0.5): RM300
- Tenancy Agreement (Estimate): RM150
- TOTAL UPFRONT: RM2,250
3 Tips to Protect Your Deposit
- The “Photo Shoot” Move-In: The moment you get your keys, take photos and videos of everything. Every scratch on the floor and every stain on the wall needs to be documented. Send these to the landlord immediately so they can’t claim you caused the damage later.
- Read the “Deep Cleaning” Clause: Many 2026 tenancy agreements now include a mandatory professional cleaning fee deducted from the deposit at the end. Check if yours has this!
- Pay via Traceable Methods: Never pay your deposit in cash on the street. Use bank transfers or secure platforms like RoomGrabs so you have a digital paper trail of every Ringgit spent.
Tired of High Deposits? We Hear You.
We know that dropping RM2,000+ just to move into a room is a massive burden, especially for fresh grads and students. That’s why RoomGrabs is working with verified landlords to offer more Zero-Deposit and Low-Deposit options across Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
Stop doing “rental math” and start living.
Browse verified, affordable rooms on RoomGrabs.com today!