Fixtures versus fittings – Property in Singapore for rent
Definition of fixtures
Fixtures are things that are annexed/fixed/attached to the land, building, flat and are immovable. Property in Singapore for rent.
For example – water pipes, taps, window frames, doorframes, fitted carpets, tiles, wallpaper, toilet bowls, wash basins, built-in bathtubs, built-in cabinets, etc.
Definition of fittings
Fittings are things that are loosely attached to the buildings and mostly in the form of personal property. Examples of fittings are: paintings hung on the wall, curtains, wall mounted flat screen LCD TV, wall mounted surround sound speakers, etc
Fixtures versus fittings
To determine whether an item is a fixture or a fitting, the law examines it with the following 2 tests, property in Singapore for rent:
- The degree of annexation meaning how attached is an item to the land. Generally, if an item is physically attached to the property or cannot be removed without damaging or destroying the item or the property, then it is a fixture. Examples of fixtures that will be damaged/ destroyed or cause the property to be damaged are as follows: water pipes, taps, window frames, doorframes, fitted carpets, tiles, wallpaper, toilet bowls, wash basins, built-in bathtubs and built-in cabinets.
- Purpose of attachment such as whether it is for the enjoyment of the item or for the improvement or essential use of the land. For example, roof tiles are usually loosely placed on top of roof frames but it is considered a fixture because it is an essential part of the property. A flat screen LCD TV attached to the wall may not be regarded as a fixture because it is for the enjoyment of the TV and is not essential to the property.
A sale contract of real property will usually not include any personal property unless it is specifically identified. In a sale of real property, if an item is in the grey area, it is best to specify it in the Inventory List for items such as a window attached air-conditioner or an expensive chandelier or a wall-mounted large LCD television or stereo speakers. Property in Singapore for rent.
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