Understanding the Role of FTIC in Fair Tenancy Disputes

The Fair Tenancy Industry Committee (FTIC) plays a crucial role in promoting fair tenancy practices in Singapore, particularly in resolving disputes related to retail leases. Here’s an in-depth overview of FTIC’s role in managing fair tenancy disputes:

1. Composition and Functions

FTIC is composed of representatives from landlord and tenant communities, as well as industry experts. Its primary functions include reviewing and modifying the Code of Conduct for Leasing of Retail Premises, monitoring compliance, and maintaining a register of permitted deviations.

How FTIC Functions:

Ensures that the Code remains relevant and effective by periodically reviewing its provisions.
Facilitates education and outreach programs to raise awareness about fair tenancy practices.
Collaborates with trade associations to promote compliance with the Code.
Provides guidance on interpreting the Code and resolving disputes.

Learn more about FTIC’s composition and functions.

2. Dispute Resolution Process

FTIC is involved in the dispute resolution process by facilitating mediation and adjudication through authorized bodies like the Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC).

How FTIC Resolves Disputes:

Encourages parties to resolve disputes through mediation, which is often faster and less costly than litigation.
Ensures that mediation settlements can be enforced like court orders if necessary.
Provides guidance on filing complaints and navigating the dispute resolution framework.
Offers resources for understanding the mediation process and preparing for mediation sessions.

Example: A retail tenant in Orchard Road disputed a rent increase with their landlord. Through FTIC’s mediation process, they reached a mutually agreeable rent adjustment, avoiding costly legal proceedings. This example highlights how FTIC’s mediation services can help resolve disputes efficiently.

Understand FTIC’s role in dispute resolution.

3. Promoting Compliance with the Code

FTIC promotes compliance with the Code by organizing educational events and working with stakeholders to ensure that both landlords and tenants understand their obligations.

How FTIC Promotes Compliance:

Conducts outreach programs to educate stakeholders about the Code and its implications.
Maintains a register of permitted deviations, ensuring transparency in lease agreements.
Collaborates with government agencies and trade associations to enforce compliance.
Develops guidelines and resources to help landlords and tenants comply with the Code.

Discover how FTIC promotes compliance.

4. Handling Permitted Deviations

FTIC oversees permitted deviations from the Code, ensuring that any deviations are mutually agreed upon by landlords and tenants.

How FTIC Manages Deviations:

Requires joint declarations of deviations to be submitted to FTIC within a specified timeframe.
Ensures that deviations are transparent and do not undermine the principles of fair tenancy.
Maintains a record of all permitted deviations to monitor compliance.
Reviews deviations to ensure they align with fair tenancy principles.

Learn about managing permitted deviations.

5. Collaboration with Industry Bodies

FTIC collaborates with industry bodies such as the Singapore Business Federation (SBF) and Singapore Tenants United for Fairness (SGTUFF) to promote fair tenancy practices.

How FTIC Collaborates:

Works with SBF to ensure that business practices align with the Code.
Partners with SGTUFF to advocate for tenant rights and provide resources.
Engages in joint initiatives to educate stakeholders about fair tenancy.

Understand FTIC’s collaboration with industry bodies.

6. Reviewing and Updating the Code

FTIC periodically reviews and updates the Code to ensure it remains relevant and effective in addressing industry needs.

How FTIC Updates the Code:

Conducts public consultations to gather feedback from stakeholders.
Collaborates with industry experts to assess market trends and legal changes.
Ensures that updates align with fair tenancy principles and industry best practices.

Learn about the Code review process.

7. Providing Resources and Guidance

FTIC provides resources and guidance to help landlords and tenants understand and comply with the Code.

How FTIC Provides Resources:

Offers guidelines and FAQs on the Code and its application.
Develops educational materials for stakeholders.
Provides access to dispute resolution services and mediation resources.

Discover FTIC’s resources.

Conclusion

FTIC plays a vital role in maintaining fair tenancy practices by overseeing the Code of Conduct, facilitating dispute resolution, promoting compliance, managing permitted deviations, collaborating with industry bodies, reviewing and updating the Code, and providing resources. By understanding FTIC’s functions and processes, SMEs can better navigate retail lease disputes and ensure fair treatment in the Singaporean retail sector.

Empowering Businesses with SGTUFF

At SGTUFF, we believe in creating a level playing field for businesses in Singapore. Whether you’re a tenant navigating leasing challenges or an SME striving for growth, we provide resources and insights to help you succeed.

Here’s how you can get started:

Become a Member: Unlock exclusive tools and networking opportunities with our Membership Plans.
Learn More: Gain practical insights into fair tenancy practices with our guide: Master the Code of Conduct for Retail Leasing.