Since the implementation of elevated safe distancing measures on 7 April 2020, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has conducted checks on over 230 strata-titled residential developments. BCA has so far issued composition fines to one Management Corporation (MCST) and four condominium residents for flouting the COVID-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020.
In order to reduce movement and interactions in common spaces and minimise contact between individuals from different households, all common facilities in strata-titled residential developments, such as condominiums, must be closed. Residents should ensure that there are no visitors to their homes for social purposes, and should not conduct social gatherings within the estates. If residents need to leave home for valid reasons, they must wear a mask even if they are within the compounds of their estates.
Three of the non-compliance cases involved a resident from a condominium at Irrawaddy Road who had used the pool, another resident of a condominium at Flora Road who had brought her children to play by the pool, as well as a resident of a condominium at Sims Drive who was found not wearing a mask at the main entrance.
The remaining cases took place at a condominium at Amber Road, where the MCST was found to have failed to close all its common facilities. One of its residents was also found using the common gym.
The MCST was issued a composition fine of $1,000, while the condominium residents were each fined $300.
Elevated safe distancing measures
BCA urges MCSTs and managing agents (MAs) to step up efforts in reminding residents the importance of complying with the elevated safe distancing measures in controlling the spread of COVID-19. Residents should support and cooperate with MCSTs and MAs, and observe the measures put in place by the MCSTs. They can report non-compliances to the MCST and/or MAs for appropriate actions to be taken.
Reporting non-compliances
BCA has been receiving feedback on non-compliance with the elevated safe distancing measures, and proper information (e.g. location, date and time, and photographic evidence) provided has aided BCA in carrying out further investigation on such feedback.
BCA’s Enforcement Officers will continue to conduct random checks on strata-titled residential developments during the circuit breaker period to ensure that the elevated safe distancing measures are complied with.