Like me, Singaporeans may have contemplated buying property abroad at some point in their lives as a form of investment. After all, a wise buy might yield healthy rental income and a sizeable gain if the value appreciates over time. But venturing into foreign waters can come with its dangers.

When Mr Justin Harper bought a two-bedroom unit outside of London in 2014, the last thing he expected was that the £270,000 investment would be deemed a serious fire risk.