The decision affirms that community safety can override strict privacy concerns in strata developments.
SINGAPORE – The High Court has upheld a Strata Titles Board ruling allowing the Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) of Highland Centre, a mixed-use development, to inspect a resident’s home. This decision stems from concerns that renovations in a unit could have damaged the building’s common property.
The case began in August 2022, when a burst pipe prompted an inspection that revealed extensive wall hacking. Concerned about structural integrity, the MCST consulted an engineer and later sought legal permission to access the property after the owners refused entry despite prior agreement.
Court’s Reasoning: Balancing Rights and Safety
The High Court ruled in September 2024 that while concrete proof of damage wasn’t necessary, the MCST must establish a “reasonable basis” for inspection requests. This sets a precedent that community safety may outweigh individual property rights.
Legal experts emphasized the broader implications, with the ruling clarifying the extent of MCST authority in safeguarding shared spaces. While privacy concerns have been raised, safeguards were highlighted, ensuring access requests are based on legitimate concerns.
This landmark decision underscores the delicate balance between individual rights and collective safety in strata-titled developments.
