FACILITY MANAGEMENT OF CHURCHES AND CHRISTIAN ORGANIZATIONS IN SINGAPORE

Abstract

In recent years, Christianity has seen a gradual increase in its number of followers. As a result, the demand for properties like churches as well as related facilities run by churches and Christian organizations has been rising in demand. With regards to policies like the 30-year leasehold land policy as well as the strict zoning controls in Singapore, churches and Christian organizations faced with increasing membership has been finding it more difficult to find suitable accommodation. Thus, in this study, the author attempts to provide a current assessment of the extent and nature of churches' and Christian organizations' (dis)satisfaction with current premises in order to have a deeper understanding of the land shortage issue that churches and Christian organization are faced with by comparing the level of utilization as well as the size fit of the different facilities that are commonly found in these organizations. The property management style and the maintenance issues of the churches and Christian organizations are also included. In addition, the study hopes to determine the level of acceptance for colocation among the churches and Christian organizations in Singapore. The survey findings and face-to-face interviews brought out a few major conclusions. Churches and Christian organizations generally find that their current premises are too small or just right to accommodate their current activities. Thus, given the expected increase in membership and/or staff strength in the near future, many of these organizations are likely to find themselves in a space shortage situation unless they can find new accommodation or implement other measures like rebuilding or renovating their current premises. The property management team of the churches and Christian organization compromises mainly of laymen. These organizations are generally satisfied with their current maintenance standards. Overall, the churches and Christian organizations are receptive to the idea of co-location.