Accountability Framework for Renovation Contractors

Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has plans to implement a system to enhance accountability among renovation contractors to ensure that they deliver on promised services; and (b) whether there are plans to introduce a mandatory accreditation process for all renovation contractors in Singapore.

Several measures are in place today to protect consumers when engaging the services of home renovation contractors. The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has introduced accreditation schemes to raise industry standards and help consumers identify reliable renovation firms. These include the CaseTrust Accreditation Scheme for Renovation Businesses, as well as the CaseTrust-RCMA Joint Accreditation Scheme for Renovation Businesses, which CASE developed in collaboration with the Singapore Renovation Contractors and Material Suppliers Association (RCMA). Errant renovation firms are also placed on the CASE’s Alert List so that consumers are aware of these firms and will avoid engaging them.

Notwithstanding this, consumers may still encounter unfair practices and contractual disputes and can seek recourse under the Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act, or approach CASE for assistance on mediation and dispute resolution. Errant firms that persist in unfair trade practices will be referred to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore for investigation. Consumers may also file a claim with the Small Claims Tribunal or seek independent legal advice.

Consumers can also file a Police report if they suspect that they are a victim of fraud. Contractors can be charged for cheating offences under section 420 of the Penal Code for deceiving victims into placing deposits for renovation works without the intention of carrying out or completing such works.

The Government has studied the extent of fraud and unfair practices in the home renovation industry. The total number of complaints received by CASE against renovation contractors has decreased from 1,469 cases in 2022 to 962 cases in 2024. We encourage consumers to refer to the CASE website (www.case.org.sg) to identify accredited home renovation firms, before engaging them.