How to Spot and Avoid Blacklisted Renovation Company in Singapore
Renovating a home is supposed to be exciting in a way to build your dream space and invest in your future. However, in Singapore, an increasing number of homeowners have found themselves trapped in renovation scams, facing unfinished homes, lost deposits, and endless legal battles.
In 2024 alone, renovation scams cost homeowners over $728,000 in losses. Behind many of these cases was one common thread: homeowners unknowingly hired a blacklisted renovation company in Singapore.
Avoiding these pitfalls isn't just about luck. It's about being informed, asking the right questions, and recognising red flags before it's too late. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to protect your renovation journey and your finances.
Real Cases of Blacklisted Renovation Companies in Singapore – Refer to CASE's Official List
The best way to learn how to avoid renovation scams is to look at real-world examples. These companies were officially blacklisted after multiple complaints and regulatory actions. Let’s dive into what happened and the valuable lessons homeowners can take from each case.
1. Sense Construction, Werkz, and Sense Visual
Background:
These three companies operated under different names but were linked by the same director, business address, and contact details. By using multiple brand names, they confused consumers and avoided bad publicity under any single identity.
What Happened:
Between November 2021 and March 2022, CASE received over 20 complaints related to these companies.
Customers reported:
- Work was consistently delayed far beyond the promised deadlines.
- After receiving large deposits, contractors either slowed down progress or stopped communicating altogether.
- Some homeowners were pressured to make additional payments mid-project, even when previous work wasn’t completed.
- Defective work, such as uneven flooring and poor carpentry, was left unfixed despite multiple requests.
Consumer Losses:
Total losses exceeded $730,000 across the affected homeowners.
Lesson Learned:
- Always verify if a company operates under multiple names.
- Check online reviews and CASE’s official database.
- Never release additional payments until previous milestones are completed satisfactorily.
Important: Multiple brand names don’t mean multiple teams; it could be one bad operator using different company logos to hide bad histories.
The owner of a Novena penthouse had engaged the firm Renosaves Project to renovate his home in May 2023. Image source: ST Photo, Brian Teo
2. Home Pro Furnishing
Background:
Home Pro Furnishing was a furniture and renovation retailer that aggressively promoted flash sales and deep discounts to attract homeowners.
What Happened:
Between July and August 2018, CASE recorded eight complaints where homeowners:
- Paid upfront deposits of up to $8,000 for furniture and renovation packages.
- Were given promised delivery dates, but received neither goods nor services.
- Discovered the company’s physical store abruptly shut down, with no forwarding address or contact details.
Some victims tried to track down the business owners but found that they had completely disappeared from both online and offline platforms.
Consumer Losses:
Homeowners lost thousands without any chance of recovering their payments.
Lesson Learned:
- Never pay large sums upfront, especially for small or mid-sized companies.
- Always verify a company's financial health (e.g., check for lawsuits or sudden store closures).
- Prioritise companies with strong local presence and positive long-term reputations.
3. 99 Reno Pte Ltd
Background:
99 Reno entered the market aggressively during the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand for home renovations was high due to work-from-home trends.
What Happened:
From July 2020 to June 2021, CASE received 30 complaints about:
- Serious project delays lasting months beyond original promises.
- Partial completion of critical works like electrical wiring, tiling, and carpentry.
- Contractors were citing COVID-19 and manpower shortages as excuses, but still aggressively taking on new clients.
- Requests for full payment before significant work was completed, even when earlier parts were incomplete.
Consumer Losses:
Homeowners reported renovation contracts ranging from $6,000 to $54,000, with many losing most or all of their payments.
Unique Issue:
Unlike some outright scams, 99 Reno continued operations but simply overwhelmed itself, making promises it couldn’t keep while cash flow problems grew.
Lesson Learned:
- Watch out for companies taking on too many projects at once.
- Ask contractors for real timelines, manpower resources, and contingency plans.
- Be wary if contractors demand payments ahead of clear progress.
4. Reka Bina Pte Ltd (RB Services Pte Ltd)
Background:
Reka Bina was a well-known name in Bedok and East Singapore, attracting many clients through attractive, competitively priced renovation packages.
What Happened:
In early 2018, consumers reported:
- Paid deposits of up to $10,000 per project.
- Renovation work started normally, but later slowed dramatically.
- After several weeks of stalling, the company’s Bedok showroom closed without warning.
- Phone lines were disconnected; all attempts to contact the management failed.
Consumer Losses:
Cumulative homeowner losses reached $101,000, with no refunds issued.
What Went Wrong:
- The company faced internal financial issues, but continued collecting deposits until it collapsed.
- No protective clauses were included in many client contracts to shield homeowners from business closure risks.
Lesson Learned:
- Always use CaseTrust-accredited contractors who offer deposit insurance.
- If a company suddenly becomes hard to contact, stop all payments immediately.
- Early signs of financial trouble (e.g., slow responses, multiple excuses) should not be ignored.
Common Tricks Used by Scam Renovators
Scam renovators often rely on specific tactics to lure in unsuspecting homeowners:
- Offering heavily discounted prices that seem “too good to be true”
- Rushing the signing process with time-limited "special offers"
- Demanding high upfront payments before even basic work starts
- Using vague language in contracts to hide responsibilities
- Blaming external factors (e.g., "COVID delays," "shortage of materials") without proof when projects stall
- Disappearing after deposit collection, leaving minimal recourse
Pro Tip:
If a contractor insists you must "decide today" or demands 70%-90% upfront without completing any work, walk away immediately.
How to Protect Yourself From Bad Renovation Contractors in Singapore
Renovating your home should feel good, not stressful. But many people in Singapore have faced trouble with bad contractors. Some lost money, some waited months for their work, and others got poor results. You can avoid these problems if you follow these seven smart tips.
1. Research Thoroughly:
Before you even request a quote:
- Check the company’s business registration on ACRA
- Google the company name with terms like “complaint” or “scam”
- Review CASE’s latest blacklisted renovation company updates
- Visit their physical office if possible
2. Choose CaseTrust-Accredited Companies:
Choosing a CaseTrust-accredited renovation company offers several benefits:
- Clear contractual terms and protection measures
- Deposit performance bonds (your deposit is insured)
- Stronger dispute resolution channels
Look for the CaseTrust badge before signing anything.
3. Use a Clear Payment Schedule:
Avoid paying lump sums upfront. Instead, negotiate a payment plan tied to project milestones, for example:
4. Insist on a Detailed Contract:
A proper renovation contract must clearly include:
- Scope of work with detailed specifications
- Project timeline with start and end dates
- Payment schedule based on milestones
- Warranty periods for workmanship
- Dispute resolution clauses
- Penalties for late completion (optional but useful)
Tip: Never start a project based on an “invoice” or a casual email. Only a legally binding, signed contract protects you.
5. Document Every Step:
Protect yourself by keeping:
- Signed copies of contracts
- Official receipts for all payments
- Photos at every stage of the renovation
- Emails, chats, and phone call summaries
This evidence becomes vital if legal or CASE intervention is needed later.
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you realise you’ve been caught in a scam:
- Stop further payments immediately.
- Collect all evidence — contracts, receipts, photos, communications.
- Complain with CASE or seek mediation.
- File a report at the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) for recovery (claims under $20,000).
- Alert the police if criminal deception is involved.
- Warn others by posting factual reviews online.
Taking action protects not only your interests but also the wider community.
Conclusion
We know how important your home is. That’s why we want to help you stay safe from bad renovation contractors. Everything we shared here is based on real cases and facts. Our goal is to give you accurate and helpful information so you don’t fall into costly traps.
Many blacklisted renovation companies in Singapore have caused pain for homeowners. But with the proper steps, you can enjoy a smooth and happy renovation. Stay smart, ask questions, and always choose trusted contractors. Your dream home is possible with the right help.
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How to Spot and Avoid Blacklisted Renovation Company in Singapore
Renovating a home is supposed to be exciting in a way to build your dream space and invest in your future. However, in Singapore, an increasing number of homeowners have found themselves trapped in renovation scams, facing unfinished homes, lost deposits, and endless legal battles.
In 2024 alone, renovation scams cost homeowners over $728,000 in losses. Behind many of these cases was one common thread: homeowners unknowingly hired a blacklisted renovation company in Singapore.
Avoiding these pitfalls isn't just about luck. It's about being informed, asking the right questions, and recognising red flags before it's too late. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to protect your renovation journey and your finances.
Real Cases of Blacklisted Renovation Companies in Singapore – Refer to CASE's Official List
The best way to learn how to avoid renovation scams is to look at real-world examples. These companies were officially blacklisted after multiple complaints and regulatory actions. Let’s dive into what happened and the valuable lessons homeowners can take from each case.
1. Sense Construction, Werkz, and Sense Visual
Background:
These three companies operated under different names but were linked by the same director, business address, and contact details. By using multiple brand names, they confused consumers and avoided bad publicity under any single identity.
What Happened:
Between November 2021 and March 2022, CASE received over 20 complaints related to these companies.
Customers reported:
- Work was consistently delayed far beyond the promised deadlines.
- After receiving large deposits, contractors either slowed down progress or stopped communicating altogether.
- Some homeowners were pressured to make additional payments mid-project, even when previous work wasn’t completed.
- Defective work, such as uneven flooring and poor carpentry, was left unfixed despite multiple requests.
Consumer Losses:
Total losses exceeded $730,000 across the affected homeowners.
Lesson Learned:
- Always verify if a company operates under multiple names.
- Check online reviews and CASE’s official database.
- Never release additional payments until previous milestones are completed satisfactorily.
Important: Multiple brand names don’t mean multiple teams; it could be one bad operator using different company logos to hide bad histories.
The owner of a Novena penthouse had engaged the firm Renosaves Project to renovate his home in May 2023. Image source: ST Photo, Brian Teo
2. Home Pro Furnishing
Background:
Home Pro Furnishing was a furniture and renovation retailer that aggressively promoted flash sales and deep discounts to attract homeowners.
What Happened:
Between July and August 2018, CASE recorded eight complaints where homeowners:
- Paid upfront deposits of up to $8,000 for furniture and renovation packages.
- Were given promised delivery dates, but received neither goods nor services.
- Discovered the company’s physical store abruptly shut down, with no forwarding address or contact details.
Some victims tried to track down the business owners but found that they had completely disappeared from both online and offline platforms.
Consumer Losses:
Homeowners lost thousands without any chance of recovering their payments.
Lesson Learned:
- Never pay large sums upfront, especially for small or mid-sized companies.
- Always verify a company's financial health (e.g., check for lawsuits or sudden store closures).
- Prioritise companies with strong local presence and positive long-term reputations.
3. 99 Reno Pte Ltd
Background:
99 Reno entered the market aggressively during the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand for home renovations was high due to work-from-home trends.
What Happened:
From July 2020 to June 2021, CASE received 30 complaints about:
- Serious project delays lasting months beyond original promises.
- Partial completion of critical works like electrical wiring, tiling, and carpentry.
- Contractors were citing COVID-19 and manpower shortages as excuses, but still aggressively taking on new clients.
- Requests for full payment before significant work was completed, even when earlier parts were incomplete.
Consumer Losses:
Homeowners reported renovation contracts ranging from $6,000 to $54,000, with many losing most or all of their payments.
Unique Issue:
Unlike some outright scams, 99 Reno continued operations but simply overwhelmed itself, making promises it couldn’t keep while cash flow problems grew.
Lesson Learned:
- Watch out for companies taking on too many projects at once.
- Ask contractors for real timelines, manpower resources, and contingency plans.
- Be wary if contractors demand payments ahead of clear progress.
4. Reka Bina Pte Ltd (RB Services Pte Ltd)
Background:
Reka Bina was a well-known name in Bedok and East Singapore, attracting many clients through attractive, competitively priced renovation packages.
What Happened:
In early 2018, consumers reported:
- Paid deposits of up to $10,000 per project.
- Renovation work started normally, but later slowed dramatically.
- After several weeks of stalling, the company’s Bedok showroom closed without warning.
- Phone lines were disconnected; all attempts to contact the management failed.
Consumer Losses:
Cumulative homeowner losses reached $101,000, with no refunds issued.
What Went Wrong:
- The company faced internal financial issues, but continued collecting deposits until it collapsed.
- No protective clauses were included in many client contracts to shield homeowners from business closure risks.
Lesson Learned:
- Always use CaseTrust-accredited contractors who offer deposit insurance.
- If a company suddenly becomes hard to contact, stop all payments immediately.
- Early signs of financial trouble (e.g., slow responses, multiple excuses) should not be ignored.
Common Tricks Used by Scam Renovators
Scam renovators often rely on specific tactics to lure in unsuspecting homeowners:
- Offering heavily discounted prices that seem “too good to be true”
- Rushing the signing process with time-limited "special offers"
- Demanding high upfront payments before even basic work starts
- Using vague language in contracts to hide responsibilities
- Blaming external factors (e.g., "COVID delays," "shortage of materials") without proof when projects stall
- Disappearing after deposit collection, leaving minimal recourse
Pro Tip:
If a contractor insists you must "decide today" or demands 70%-90% upfront without completing any work, walk away immediately.
How to Protect Yourself From Bad Renovation Contractors in Singapore
Renovating your home should feel good, not stressful. But many people in Singapore have faced trouble with bad contractors. Some lost money, some waited months for their work, and others got poor results. You can avoid these problems if you follow these seven smart tips.
1. Research Thoroughly:
Before you even request a quote:
- Check the company’s business registration on ACRA
- Google the company name with terms like “complaint” or “scam”
- Review CASE’s latest blacklisted renovation company updates
- Visit their physical office if possible
2. Choose CaseTrust-Accredited Companies:
Choosing a CaseTrust-accredited renovation company offers several benefits:
- Clear contractual terms and protection measures
- Deposit performance bonds (your deposit is insured)
- Stronger dispute resolution channels
Look for the CaseTrust badge before signing anything.
3. Use a Clear Payment Schedule:
Avoid paying lump sums upfront. Instead, negotiate a payment plan tied to project milestones, for example:
4. Insist on a Detailed Contract:
A proper renovation contract must clearly include:
- Scope of work with detailed specifications
- Project timeline with start and end dates
- Payment schedule based on milestones
- Warranty periods for workmanship
- Dispute resolution clauses
- Penalties for late completion (optional but useful)
Tip: Never start a project based on an “invoice” or a casual email. Only a legally binding, signed contract protects you.
5. Document Every Step:
Protect yourself by keeping:
- Signed copies of contracts
- Official receipts for all payments
- Photos at every stage of the renovation
- Emails, chats, and phone call summaries
This evidence becomes vital if legal or CASE intervention is needed later.
What to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you realise you’ve been caught in a scam:
- Stop further payments immediately.
- Collect all evidence — contracts, receipts, photos, communications.
- Complain with CASE or seek mediation.
- File a report at the Small Claims Tribunals (SCT) for recovery (claims under $20,000).
- Alert the police if criminal deception is involved.
- Warn others by posting factual reviews online.
Taking action protects not only your interests but also the wider community.
Conclusion
We know how important your home is. That’s why we want to help you stay safe from bad renovation contractors. Everything we shared here is based on real cases and facts. Our goal is to give you accurate and helpful information so you don’t fall into costly traps.
Many blacklisted renovation companies in Singapore have caused pain for homeowners. But with the proper steps, you can enjoy a smooth and happy renovation. Stay smart, ask questions, and always choose trusted contractors. Your dream home is possible with the right help.