Renovation
New Home Defect Check in Singapore: What to Inspect
Getting the keys to a new BTO or condo is exciting — but before you renovate or move in, a careful defect check protects you. Spotting issues early means they’re rectified before your renovation covers them up. Here’s what to inspect.
Key takeaways
- Do a defect check before renovating — reno can hide or complicate claims.
- Inspect walls, floors, doors, windows, and wet areas methodically.
- Check that finishes, fittings and services work and are undamaged.
- Document everything with photos and submit within the defects window.
What to inspect
- Walls and ceilings: cracks, uneven plaster, stains or damp patches.
- Floors and tiles: hollow or cracked tiles, uneven or lippage, scratches.
- Doors and windows: that they close and latch, seal properly and aren’t scratched.
- Wet areas: drainage falls (no ponding), sealant, and signs of leaks.
- Electrical and fittings: that sockets, switches and provided fittings work.
Why do it before renovating
Once you start hacking, tiling and building carpentry, it becomes hard to tell an original defect from renovation work — and harder to claim. A defect check first means the developer or HDB rectifies genuine issues while responsibility is clear.
Document and submit
Go room by room, photograph every issue, note its location, and submit within the defects liability period. Being thorough now saves disputes later. From there, you can plan your renovation with a clean slate.
Frequently asked questions
Should I check for defects before renovating? Yes — renovation can obscure defects and complicate claims, so inspect first.
What are common new-home defects? Hollow or cracked tiles, uneven finishes, door/window issues, and wet-area drainage.
How do I report defects? Document with photos and submit within the defects liability period.
Can you help fix defects? We can address many finishing and fitting issues as part of your renovation.
Starting on a new home?
We help you move from defect check to a smooth renovation. See our home renovation service and our renovation checklist. Book a consultation.
