Our members often experience small consumer disputes and feel frustrated at the often very different level of customer service compared to other countries. However, there is a costs- effective and quick avenue for recourse – The Small Claims Tribunals (SCT). 

How to get started?

There is a relatively simple online application that is submitted once a non-refundable fee is paid. 

Let’s have a look at some of the facts you need to know:

Quantum of Dispute 

The SCT can only hear disputes involving claims not exceeding $20,000.

However, if both parties give their consent, the SCT can hear claims not exceeding $30,000.

The filing fee is 50-100 dollars or 3% if the claim is over SGD 10,000

Claims Tribunals can hear:

1. Damage to your property

2. Sale of goods – e.g. when you purchase a piano/sofa etc 

3. Provision of services – e.g. when you engage the services of a home designer

4. Tenancy Agreement disputes for the lease of residential property not exceeding 2 years;

5. Contracts to buy or sell foreign currency with a licensed money-changer under the Money-changing and Remittance Business Act;

6. Damage to your property;

7. Cancellation of contracts under the Consumer Fair Trading (Cancellation of Contracts) Regulations 2009;

8. Refund of motor vehicle deposits in accordance with the Consumer Fair Trading (Motor Vehicle Dealer Deposits) Regulations 2009

9. Opt-out under the Consumer Fair Trading (Opt-Out) Regulations 2009

The SCT does not hear disputes involving employment, loan agreements stocks and shares, foreign exchange, rental and charters, insurance and legal fees or car disputes. You will have to seek legal advice from a lawyer to see how to pursue these types of claims.

Limitation Period

In addition, if the cause of action or event happened more than 2 years ago, the SCT will not hear the claim. This is something to certainly take note of so act sooner rather than later.

Outside the categories SCT deals with you can still sue in the civil courts but seek professional advice. 

After lodging a claim online then what is the procedure?

The Registrar will conduct the initial consultation and mediation, and should the two parties not come to an agreed settlement then the matter will proceed further to a referee. Both parties have to represent themselves and lawyers are not permitted. The parties are able to present their own evidence and even witnesses are allowed. The listening referee will then make his decision. 

This is a quick, cost effective and timely option that you may well wish to consider which will not rack up huge legal costs nor will the unsuccessful party have to bear any legal costs of the other side.

We have plenty of members who have been able to seek recourse through this procedure. Should you want further information please consult the State Courts website.