The Scammer's Playbook Exposed
15 tactics every homeowner must know, from the disappearing contractor to the variation order explosion.
The 15 Tactics Every Homeowner Must Know
We've analyzed hundreds of cases to identify exactly how contractors scam homeowners. Knowing these tactics is your first line of defense.
These aren't theoretical scenarios - they're real tactics used against Singapore homeowners every week.
Classic Scam Tactics
The Disappearing Contractor Classic
Take 50% deposit
Start work for 2 weeks, claim 'supplier problem,' disappear
S$20,000-40,000
Never pay more than 20% upfront
The Material Switcheroo
Quote premium materials (Blum, Hafele)
Install China generic brands
S$5,000-10,000 in value
Specify exact model numbers, verify upon delivery
The Variation Order Explosion
Initial quote S$35,000 'all-in'
'Unexpected' issues need addressing every week
S$20,000 over budget
Written variation orders only, right to refuse
The Perpetual Delay
Promise 8 weeks completion
16 weeks of excuses while taking other projects
S$3,000+ in accommodation
Liquidated damages clause mandatory
The Hostage Situation
Complete 90% of work
Hold back critical 10%, demand full payment
Forced to pay or live with incomplete work
10-15% retention sum always
The Phoenix Company
'Reno Excellence Pte Ltd' today
Close after complaints, reopen as 'Excellence Reno Pte Ltd'
No recourse against 'new' company
Check directors' history, not just company
Advanced Deception Tactics
The Fake Portfolio
Show beautiful completed projects
Photos stolen from Pinterest/overseas sites
Hire incompetent contractor
Reverse image search, request site visits
The Subcontractor Blame Game
Problem with defective work
'Subcontractor's fault, not under my control'
Endless finger-pointing, no resolution
Main contractor liability clause essential
The Quality Degradation
Week 1: Excellent work (while watching)
Week 3+: Rush job as attention shifts
Defects everywhere
Regular inspections, payment tied to quality
The Hidden Cost Ambush
Quote doesn't include 'standard' items
Surprise S$2,000 bill for disposal, haulage, protection
S$2,000-5,000 in 'extras'
'All-inclusive' clause in contract
The Certification Scam
Claims 'BCA certified,' 'HDB approved'
Certifications expired or fake
No official recourse channels
Verify all certifications independently
The Pressure Close
'Special price, today only'
Rush decision, miss red flags
Locked into bad contract
Never sign same day, always sleep on it
The Final Scam Tactics
The Incomplete Handover
Claim 'project complete'
20+ defects outstanding, pressure to sign
Sign = accepted = no recourse
Detailed inspection before any handover signature
The Warranty Vanish
Promise '1-year warranty on all work'
Month 2: defects appear, phone disconnected
Pay for rectification yourself
CaseTrust accreditation, retention sum
The Package Illusion
'Full home renovation S$25,888'
Package excludes 50% of necessary work
Final cost S$45,000+
Detailed quotation, not package deals