ISSUES RELATING TO COMMON PROPERTY IN STRATA TITLED DEVELOPMENTS

Abstract

The understanding and interpretation of the term "common property" vary from one person to another, even among managing agents. Hence, the practice and advice given in relation to this may be incorrect. Correct practice and interpretation of relevant terms may reduce the number of disputes and improve the standard of property and facility management in Singapore. Thus, the understanding and interpretation of "common property" in strata-titled developments is critical in property and facility management. The objective of this study is to suggest solutions to issues relating to common property. An e-mail survey and site survey were conducted to determine the basic understanding of the term common property among managing agents in Singapore. The outcome of the e-mail survey infers that majority of the managing agents do not have strong basic understanding to differentiate common property and non-common property. It is suggested that the definition of common property should not be confined into a box or a column of space but it should include all tangible and intangible property. The relevant authorities, owners and agents of strata-titled development should work together to reduce disputes relating to property and facility management. This would lead to social and economic advancement.