Singapore housing authority says condo by-laws cannot be used to restrict owners in renting out their units

SINGAPORE, June 27 — Condominium by‑laws cannot be used to restrict homeowners from renting out their units, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) said yesterday, after a Geylang development attempted to bar certain foreign workers from living on its premises.  

The clarification came after The Straits Times reported that Casa Aerata, a 78‑unit condo, had passed by‑laws prohibiting work permit holders in the construction sector from residing in units. Several owners who lease their apartments to companies said they received legal letters in April accusing them of breaching the new rules.   

BCA said in a Facebook post that while Management Corporations Strata Title (MCSTs) are empowered to regulate the management and use of common property, they cannot enact by‑laws that limit an owner’s right to lease, transfer, mortgage or otherwise deal with their property. Disputes over the validity of such by‑laws can be brought before the Strata Titles Boards.   

Casa Aerata’s first by‑law, passed in March 2025, banned units from housing work permit holders and prohibited rentals of less than three months. A second by‑law approved in January 2026 allowed only “eligible foreign employees” — such as Employment Pass and S Pass holders, and Malaysian or services‑sector work permit holders — to rent units. Owners were told to amend tenancy agreements by March 31 or face a S$200 administrative fee and possible legal action.   

Some homeowners questioned the legitimacy of the rules, noting that only 12 owners attended the meeting where the first by‑law was passed. A property lawyer told ST that a by‑law can still be valid if those present represent at least 75 per cent of the share value of attendees and all procedural requirements — including proper notice and quorum rules — are met.   

BCA said owners who wish to amend or repeal existing by‑laws may table a motion at an annual or extraordinary general meeting, or seek recourse through the Strata Titles Boards. Homeowners at Casa Aerata told ST they are considering their next steps.