Don’t Get Caught Off Guard — Know What to Expect

Serviced offices are popular for their all-inclusive, hassle-free appeal. But beneath the "one price covers all” marketing, there are often hidden or unclear costs that can surprise tenants later on.

Here’s a breakdown of what to look out for before signing your lease.

1. Internet Speed vs. Bandwidth Allocation

Most providers include internet — but not all offer equal performance.

• Shared vs. Dedicated Bandwidth: You may be sharing the same line with 20 other companies. If your work relies heavily on video calls, cloud storage, or uploads, you might need to upgrade (at extra cost).

Tip: Ask for a speed test of the actual unit.

2. Meeting Room Limits

Private office tenants usually get a number of free meeting room credits per month. But:

• Overage charges kick in quickly — often $30–$100/hour.
• Popular rooms get booked out, especially during peak hours.

Tip: Confirm how many hours you get, the booking process, and if there are any blackout times.

3. Printing & Scanning Charges

Printing is almost never unlimited — even black-and-white pages.

• Expect charges like $0.10 – $0.50/page, more for colour or scanning.
• Some plans include a low quota (e.g., 50 pages/month).

Tip: Ask for a breakdown of print/copy fees and whether paper is included.

4. Pantry & Refreshments

"Free coffee” may be advertised, but it’s often just basic instant sachets. The pantry provisions often vary across different providers.

• Premium options (like espresso, oat milk, or snacks) may require a monthly pantry subscription.
• Water, cups, or even fridge use can vary by provider.

Tip: Tour the actual pantry and ask what’s free vs. paid.

5. Deposits & One-Time Fees

• Security Deposits are usually 1–2 months' rent.
• One-time setup/admin fees ($50–$300 per pax) may apply even for short leases.
• Card or key replacement charges can also be hefty.

Tip: Get a full breakdown of all one-off costs before committing.

6. Price Lock Duration

• Promotional discounts may only last 3–6 months.
• Renewal prices can jump significantly.

Tip: Negotiate a longer lock-in period, or clarify renewal terms upfront.

Final Word: It’s Still Worth It — If You Know What to Ask

Serviced offices remain a flexible and smart solution — especially if you understand the fine print. With the right provider, you can avoid surprises and still enjoy a great workspace experience.

Need Help Decoding the Small Print?

At Tenant City, we compare actual lease terms, hidden fees, and usage caps — so you don’t have to.

📞 Call or WhatsApp us at +65 9680 6996
📧 Email us at hello@tenantcity.com.sg

We’ll send a curated shortlist and arrange same-day viewings — at no cost to you.