SINGAPORE – A 46-year-old homeowner is facing a renovation nightmare after paying more than $152,000 for work that remains incomplete, leaving a penthouse in Novena in disarray. Despite promises of a finished home by September 2024, the unit is still cluttered with construction materials, uneven flooring, and water ingress issues.
The Renovation Gone Wrong
The homeowner, known as Mr K, engaged Renosaves Project in May 2023 to undertake full renovations after being satisfied with their previous work on outdoor blinds. The $252,000 project included extensive renovations such as hacking, flooring, plumbing, and electrical work, yet Mr K has faced nothing but woes since then.
- Initial Consultation: Mr K mentioned that the contractor presented himself as professional, even providing 3D mock-ups of the proposed renovations.
- Escalating Issues: By July 2024, the promised completion had turned into chaos, with walls revealing unsightly wires and ceilings developing holes.
- Uncontactable Contractor: Since September, the contractor has vanished, leaving Mr K unable to communicate or receive updates on his home.
A Wider Concern
Mr K is not alone in his plight. The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) reports three complaints against Renosaves Project between January and November 2024, all citing unsatisfactory workmanship. Furthermore, Mr K has lodged police reports against the company, raising concerns about the contractor’s disappearance.
Voices of the Affected
A worker from Renosaves Project, himself a victim of the situation, reported being owed over $5,000 in unpaid wages, highlighting the ripple effect of the company’s mismanagement.
Consumer Protections Available
In light of such renovation failures, expert advice from Melvin Yong, the president of CASE, emphasises the importance of engaging CaseTrust accredited contractors. These contractors must adhere to:
- Clear work and payment schedules
- Protection of consumer deposits against sudden closures
- A well-defined dispute resolution process
Statistics reveal a slight decline in complaints against renovation contractors, with 486 reported in the first half of 2024, down from 1,168 in 2023.
What to Do Next
For those facing similar issues, CASE advises exploring avenues such as the Small Claims Tribunals for disputes worth up to $20,000. For higher claim values, civil claims may be necessary.
To those in Singapore contemplating home renovations, proceed with caution and do your research to avoid such disheartening experiences.