Case, RCMA roll out new contractor accreditation scheme

It calls for more transparency and accountability.

A new voluntary accreditation scheme jointly developed by the Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) and the Singapore Renovation Contractors and Material Suppliers Association (RCMA) mandates increased transparency and accountability from renovation businesses.

According to a joint news release by the two organisations, accredited businesses will be required to adopt a CaseTrust Standard Renovation Contract to ensure cost transparency and accountability for listed deliverables in a renovation project. This is an extra step of protection compared to the initial CaseTrust accreditation for renovation businesses.

Further, accredited renovation businesses will be subjected to a stringent criteria. This includes a redress system with dispute resolution measures with mandatory mediation by the CASE Mediation Centre; trained sales staff that provide accurate information regarding the project; clearly documented and articulated policies on fees and fee refund; and compulsory on-site workmanship assessment conducted by the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore.

The new CaseTrust-RCMA accreditation scheme also ensures homeowners aren’t left in the lurch if their contractor’s business ends up going bust, as deposits are protected through a deposit performance bond.

So far, five contractors have received CaseTrust-RCMA accreditation, with another 12 in process.

A CaseTrust-RCMA guidebook has also been published to educate consumers about engaging a contractor for home renovation, and includes a list of CaseTrust-accredited RMCA members.