Lawyer Khoo Ai Theng Urges Crackdown on Unlicensed Renovation Contractors to Safeguard Consumer Rights

Lawyer Khoo Ai Theng Urges Crackdown on Unlicensed Renovation Contractors to Safeguard Consumer Rights
Date: May 30, 2024

Lawyer Khoo Ai Theng has called for stronger enforcement against unlicensed renovation contractors, stressing the urgent need to protect consumer rights and ensure fair competition within the industry.

Her remarks came in response to a complaint from interior designer Lim Ting Wei, who revealed that many unlicensed contractors are operating in the market. These individuals often entice customers with low prices, only to fail in delivering on their contractual promises. Some disappear after receiving partial or full payments, leaving renovation projects incomplete and causing significant financial losses to clients.

“Unlicensed contractors disrupt the market and pose serious risks to consumer safety and interests,” Khoo stated.

She highlighted that many of these contractors lack the necessary technical expertise and professional certification, leading to poor workmanship and potentially hazardous conditions.

“Consumers are often drawn in by attractive pricing and place trust in these contractors, not realizing the risks involved. Sadly, many end up bearing the consequences,” she added.

Khoo urged the authorities to implement stricter oversight mechanisms, ensuring that only certified and licensed professionals are permitted to operate in the renovation industry. She also advocated for tough legal action against those found operating without proper authorization.

In addition, she stressed the importance of increasing public awareness, encouraging consumers to verify contractor credentials and sign formal contracts to secure their rights.

Khoo proposed the creation of a transparent public registry to allow consumers to check a contractor’s licensing status. She also called for the development of industry standards to regulate service quality and the establishment of a credibility tracking system, where contractors with poor records can be publicly identified.

“Implementing these measures will help strengthen trust in the renovation sector and protect consumers from being taken advantage of,” Khoo concluded. 

Newspaper Link: China Press