Complaints against Managing Agents of Management Corporations of Strata Titles
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns complaints against managing agents (MAs) of Management Corporations of Strata Titles (MCSTs) and their professional qualifications. Mr Zainal Sapari inquired about trends in service complaints and measures to ensure MAs possess the necessary credentials. Minister for National Development Mr Lawrence Wong replied that complaints have remained steady at about 30 cases annually over five years. He noted that MCSTs can select firms via a voluntary accreditation scheme requiring trained, experienced staff and industry-recognized certifications. Additionally, the BCA Academy provides specialized training to help MAs enhance their competency and understanding of strata management regulations.
Transcript
35 Mr Zainal Sapari asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether there is an increasing trend over the last five years on the number of complaints received by BCA on managing agents of Management Corporations of Strata Title (MCSTs) over their non-delivery of service or compliance; and (b) whether there are processes in place to ensure only managing agents of MCSTs with the necessary credentials are allowed to operate their business.
Mr Lawrence Wong: We have not seen an increase in the number of complaints received about service standards of managing agents (MAs). The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) receives about 30 cases of such feedback annually. This number has been consistent over the last five years.
Management Corporation Strata Titles (MCSTs) have the flexibility to appoint MA firms that best serve their needs. To aid them in their choice, MCSTs can select from a list of MA firms accredited under the voluntary Accredited Managing Agent (AMA) scheme. This scheme is jointly administered by two industry associations: the Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers, and the Association of Property and Facility Managers. Accredited firms are required to have staff who are trained in recognised estate or building management courses, and who also possess sufficient experience and knowledge in property and strata management.
To help raise the overall competency of MAs, the BCA Academy also offers courses covering the strata management framework and relevant rules and regulations. We encourage MAs to make use of these training opportunities.