Can I take my renovation contractor to the Small Claims Tribunals?
Yes, if the claim fits. The Small Claims Tribunals hear claims on contracts for the provision of services, and the judiciary gives a renovation contract as an example. The claim must not exceed S$20,000, or S$30,000 if both parties sign a Memorandum of Consent, and must be filed within 2 years of the event that gave rise to it. Lawyers cannot represent parties. You file online through the Community Justice and Tribunals System.
From the RRD Field Guide, checked against the sources cited in Resolving Renovation and Construction Disputes in Singapore: CASE, Mediation, Small Claims, SOPA Adjudication, Courts and Arbitration. General information, not advice for your project.
The fuller picture
Choose the route by who you are, the dispute type and the amount. Consumers usually start with CASE. Claims up to S$20,000 (S$30,000 by consent) filed within 2 years can go to the Small Claims Tribunals, without lawyers. Contractors owed progress payments under written contracts can use SOPA adjudication. Larger claims go to mediation, the Magistrate's Court (to S$60,000), District Court (to S$250,000) or arbitration.
More questions on this topic
- Can a contractor use the Small Claims Tribunals to recover an unpaid renovation bill?
- Does CASE mediation cost anything?
- Can a renovation contractor use SOPA against a homeowner?
- My neighbour's renovation is causing noise and damage. Where do I go?
- What happens if my contract has an arbitration clause?
- Do I need to send a letter of demand before going to court?
- What evidence do I need for a renovation dispute?