Does CASE mediation cost anything?
CASE charges a small administrative fee to both parties, which varies with the claim size and whether the consumer is a CASE member. For example, for a claim between S$10,001 and S$20,000 outside real estate, a member pays S$27.25 and a non-member S$109 (including 9% GST). If the business is CaseTrust-accredited, mediation charges are borne by CaseTrust, and the accredited business must attend if the consumer asks for mediation.
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 I take my renovation contractor to the Small Claims Tribunals?
- Can a contractor use the Small Claims Tribunals to recover an unpaid renovation bill?
- 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?