My condo neighbor makes excessive noise. How do I complain through the MCST in Singapore?

What the Law Says

Under Section 37 of the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act (BMSMA), every MCST has the statutory duty to enforce the subsidiary legislation and the development’s by-laws — including those governing nuisance, unreasonable noise, and quiet enjoyment. By-laws commonly adopted under the BMSMA (e.g., First Schedule, By-law 14) prohibit owners or occupiers from causing ‘noise, vibration or disturbance’ that interferes with other residents’ reasonable use or enjoyment of their lots. Breach constitutes a civil wrong actionable by the MCST, not merely a private dispute between neighbours. Furthermore, Section 48(1)(a) empowers the Strata Titles Board (STB) to hear and determine complaints relating to breaches of by-laws or the BMSMA, including noise-related breaches, and to issue binding orders such as cessation notices, fines, or cost awards.

Practical Steps

Begin by documenting the noise (dates, times, duration, nature — e.g., loud music after 10:30pm, drilling during prohibited hours) and attempt an amicable resolution with your neighbour. If unsuccessful, submit a clear, dated, written complaint to your MCST’s managing agent or secretary, citing specific by-law breaches (e.g., 'By-law 14(1)(c)') and attaching evidence. The MCST must convene a council meeting within 14 days to consider the complaint (Regulation 11, BMSMA Regulations) and may issue a written notice requiring compliance. If the MCST fails to act reasonably or the noise persists, file Form STB 1 with the Strata Titles Board within 12 months of the latest breach, paying the $200 filing fee. Note: You may represent yourself at the STB; legal representation is not mandatory but recommended for complex cases.

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