Insights

Singapore property and strata terms: Part 2

A current primer on strata title, common property, share value, GFA and legal interests.

Published 16 August 2023

Updated September 2026. This glossary is general information, not legal, planning, tax or financial advice. Verify the current definition and rule with the relevant authority.

Property and strata terms

Strata title
Ownership of an individual lot together with a share in common property, subject to the registered strata plan and by-laws.
Common property
Areas not comprised in an individual lot and managed collectively through the management corporation.
Share value
A value used for matters such as contribution and voting under the applicable strata framework. It is not the market value of the unit.
Exclusive use
A right to use an area may arise from title, by-law or another instrument. It should never be assumed from physical access alone.
Gross floor area
A planning measurement determined under prevailing URA definitions and exclusions.
Strata area
The registered lot area, which can include spaces that do not have the same utility as internal liveable floor area.
Encumbrance
A registered or legal interest that may affect the property, such as a mortgage, charge, easement or restriction.
Easement
A right benefiting or burdening land, commonly involving access, services or drainage.

Read the title, strata plan, by-laws and approved plans for the exact property. Obtain legal and professional advice where a definition affects a transaction or proposed use.