A home renovation is more than just a construction project—it’s a leap of faith. You invite a contractor into your space, hand over your hard-earned money, and trust that they’ll deliver what they promised. But what if that trust is misplaced? What if, instead of a beautifully renovated home, you’re left with unfinished work, mounting costs, or a contractor who’s nowhere to be found?
Unfortunately, stories of renovation scams are all too common, with unsuspecting homeowners falling prey to smooth-talking fraudsters who seem legitimate at first glance. This is why hiring an HDB registered contractor is more than just a formality—it’s a layer of protection against potential fraud. But how can you tell the difference between a professional and a pretender? And what steps can you take to safeguard yourself before signing on the dotted line?
In this article, we’ll explore a real-life case of contractor fraud, what went wrong, and most importantly—how you can avoid becoming the next victim.
Summary
Gary Lau, a 56-year-old man, was sentenced to six months in jail and fined S$2,400 for posing as an authorised contractor and cheating elderly homeowners. Operating under the names Home Patching Contractor and iHome Patching Contractor, he falsely claimed that patching works were necessary and convinced victims to pay deposits or full amounts in cash. Some victims later realised he was not an HDB-authorised contractor and attempted to get their money back, but Lau either refused or only provided partial refunds. While he did complete some of the work, complaints about poor workmanship were ignored. In one incident, he became aggressive when an elderly resident advised his neighbour to seek a second opinion, spitting at the man and later attacking him. Despite multiple reports made between 2017 and 2019, Lau continued his deception until his arrest. The prosecutor highlighted the need to deter such predatory behaviour, but the court imposed a lighter sentence, noting that the amounts involved were relatively small.
Reflection: Building Homes, Breaking Trust
Renovating a home is a major commitment, and for most homeowners, it’s a process built on trust. But as the case of Gary Lau has shown, that trust can be easily exploited. Lau posed as a government-approved contractor, targeting elderly homeowners and convincing them to pay for renovation works under false pretenses. While some jobs were completed, complaints about poor workmanship were ignored, and many were left with half-finished projects and lost money. It took years before he was caught and jailed, but by then, the damage had already been done.
Sadly, this isn’t a one-off case. Every year, homeowners find themselves dealing with contractors who vanish mid-project, fail to deliver on promises, or demand extra payments for unfinished work. The problem? Many of these contractors seem legitimate at first. They flash company-branded passes, present stacks of invoices, and use all the right words to sound professional. But once the money is handed over, it’s a different story.
That’s why verifying a contractor’s credentials before hiring them isn’t just a formality—it’s a necessity. HDB-authorised contractors are held to strict standards and are accountable for their work. Choosing an accredited contractor doesn’t just ensure compliance with renovation rules, it also protects homeowners from unnecessary risks.
Tips for Hiring the Right Contractor
To ensure a smooth renovation process, here are some key tips for hiring a trustworthy renovation professional in Singapore.
1. Always Check HDB Registration
Not every contractor is authorised to work on HDB flats, so before signing anything, take a moment to check the HDB Directory of Registered Renovation Contractors. This ensures the contractor is approved to carry out works that meet safety and structural standards.
2. Look for CaseTrust Accreditation
HDB registration ensures a contractor can legally work on your flat, but CaseTrust-accredited firms offer extra protection. These contractors provide clear contracts, structured payment plans, and deposit safeguards, so you won’t be left in the lurch if anything goes wrong.
3. Read Reviews and Ask Around
A professional-looking website and a friendly sales pitch don’t guarantee good service. Take time to read Google Reviews, check renovation forums, and ask for recommendations from friends or neighbours. If a contractor has a history of delays, hidden costs, or disappearing acts, chances are, past customers have already spoken up about it.
4. Get a Clear Contract and Payment Schedule
A proper contract should clearly state:
- The work to be done
- Materials to be used
- Expected completion timeline
- Payment terms
Be wary of contractors who demand huge upfront deposits. A safer option is a progressive payment schedule, where you pay in stages as the work progresses. This way, you have better control over the renovation process.
5. Don’t Fall for a Flashy Sales Pitch
Some contractors come armed with impressive 3D mock-ups, a well-rehearsed pitch, and even fake HDB badges. While these can be convincing, do your own checks before making a decision. A contractor’s past projects and customer reviews matter more than a slick presentation.
6. If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is
A suspiciously cheap quote might be tempting, but it often comes with a catch—either poor-quality materials, hidden charges, or extra costs later on. Always compare a few quotations and make sure you’re getting the same level of work across the board.
7. Make Sure They Have a Physical Office
A reliable business should have a physical office or showroom. If a contractor can only be contacted by phone and has no fixed address, that’s a red flag. Having an office adds a level of accountability in case any issues arise.
8. Stay Involved in Your Renovation
Once work starts, visit the site regularly to keep track of progress. If something doesn’t look right, raise concerns early before it becomes a bigger issue. Unexpected delays or changes? Ask for written explanations before agreeing to anything.
9. Know Your Rights
If things go south, you’re not powerless. The Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) can help with mediation, while the Small Claims Tribunals can assist if the dispute involves up to S$20,000 (or S$30,000 if both parties agree). Knowing these options can make handling disputes easier if needed.
Conclusion
Home renovations should be an exciting transformation, not a financial nightmare. While most contractors in Singapore are honest professionals, cases like Gary Lau’s show that scams still exist, especially for those who don’t take the right precautions. The key to a smooth and successful renovation? Due diligence.
Your home is one of your biggest investments, so protect it by choosing your contractor wisely. After all, a bit of effort upfront can mean the difference between a smooth, exciting transformation and a renovation you’d rather forget.
