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The HDB provides a one-year Defect Liability Period (DLP) during which homeowners can report construction defects for rectification by the Building Service Centre (BSC) without additional cost. As more people became aware of this, they sought professional defect checkers to maximise the value of this period.
The popularity of Build-to-Order (BTO) flats surged from the late 2000s to the 2010s, resulting in an influx of new homeowners who wanted to ensure their homes met expectations. Many first-time homeowners, unfamiliar with what to look for, turned to defect inspection services for a thorough assessment.
10 HDB & Condo Defect Checkers
If you don’t want an extensive renovation and prefer to ride on the free HDB repair works, you’re best off engaging professional BTO defect checkers. Here are 10 professional defect checker companies to consider.
| Professional BTO checkers | Prices |
|---|---|
| Uncle Defect | $200 to $1,200 |
| Defects Solution Singapore | $200 to $500 |
| Absolute Inspection | $250 to $1,000 |
| YHH Plus Enterprise (Defects Check) | Get a quote |
| Ark Interior | $200 to $950 |
| Advance Inspection | $150 to S$1,050 |
| SG Defect Scan | Get a quote |
| Assure Home Inspection & Consultancy | $250 to $1,000 |
| Buddyfects | $300 to $605 |
| Stand By Area | From $100 |
Uncle Defect SG
If you’re searching for a consistently reliable defect-checking service, Uncle Defect SG’s reputation precedes itself with an impeccable 5-star rating based on 2,112 Google reviews. Founded by the former interior designer Uncle Amos, he’s been a veteran in the renovation industry for more than a decade.
As expected, the team at Uncle Defect performs a thorough step-by-step inspection process before generating detailed reports to facilitate easy rectification between HDB, condo owners, and contractors. Typically, these checks take up to half a day.
Overall, there are five available packages to choose from:
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | One-time inspection with defects recording | HDB: $200 to $380. Condo: $350 to $650 |
| Silver | Two defect inspections before and after rectifications with defects recording | HDB: $300 to $480. Condo: $450 to $750 |
| Gold | Three defect inspections — initial, run-through with client and builder before rectification (joint), and after rectification (handover) | HDB: $400 to $580. Condo: $550 to $850 |
| Platinum | Four defect inspections: initial, run-through with client and builder before rectification (joint), after rectification (handover), and post-renovation | HDB: $600 to $780. Condo: $800 to $1,100 |
| Diamond | Five defect inspections: initial, run-through with client and builder before rectification (joint), after rectification (handover), post-renovation, and post-renovation + rectification | HDB: $800 to $880. Condo: $900 to $1,200 |
In the diamond package, here’s what this company will do:
- First inspection: Identify defects in property. Recording defects in developer’s approved format for client’s use
- Second (joint) inspection: Defects run-through with client and builder before rectification
- Third (handover) inspection: After rectification works have been carried out
- Fourth inspection: Post-renovation inspection after ID or contractor has completed work
- Fifth inspection: Post-renovation, rectification inspection to ensure defects have been fixed by ID or contractor
Evidently, the bronze and silver tiers are the more basic packages offering simpler inspections whereas the platinum and diamond tiers offer a more comprehensive inspection process from start to finish.
Uncle Defect SG is located at 15 Duku Road, Singapore 429165, open from 9am to 9pm daily. WhatsApp: +65 9323 3338.
Defects Solutions Singapore
Similar to Uncle Amos, Defects Solutions Singapore (DSS) is led by a seasoned professional, Uncle Jimmy, with over 20 years of experience in construction, including interior design and project management. Prioritising customers at the forefront, DSS excels in comprehensive end-to-end defect checks for all Singapore properties — from BTOs, resale HDBs, condos, landed properties, and even commercial buildings.
Their inspections are thorough, encompassing every part of your house including your front metal gate area. During each inspection (first and third), a minimum of two inspectors will be dispatched to assess your home’s condition. Rest assured, each team is always led by a leader with at least one year’s experience. In general, you can expect each inspection to take up to two hours to complete.
They have three inspection packages in total:
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | One-time full defects inspection and photo report | From $200 |
| Comprehensive | 3 full defect inspections with end-to-end management of BSC/MCST | From $250 |
| Premium | Full defects inspection with end-to-end renovation management | From $1,500 |
In the premium package, you can expect:
- First inspection: Identify and label defects. Produce defect finding report with photo or developer’s defect report for client
- Second (joint) inspection: Defect run-through with client and builder before rectification works
- Third (handover) inspection: After rectification has been carried out
End-to-end renovation project management (e.g. contractor recommendation), fixed project management fees, guaranteed savings from ID quotations
Defects Solutions Singapore is located at 116 Lavender Street, Pek Chuan Building, Singapore 338730. Contact them at +65 9036 7705.
Absolute Inspection
Operating in both Singapore and Malaysia, Absolute Inspection was founded by Tan Wee Kwang, a former member of the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). Using his extensive experience as a seasoned building inspector, his team excels at swiftly identifying and resolving defects.
Plus, as the only defects company certified by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RCIS), they offer free lifetime off-site technical consultations on all home defections, even beyond the completion of your inspection package.
They have three packages to choose from:
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | One-time inspection with full photo inspection report of developer’s format for client’s use, including client briefing on findings and recommendations | HDB BTO/SBF: $250 to $450. EC/Private condo: $300 to $800 |
| Comprehensive | Three defects inspection — initial, run-through with client and builder before rectification (joint), post-rectification (handover) | HDB BTO/SBF: $350 to $550. EC/Private condo: $350 to $1,000 |
And with a stellar track record of 4.9 stars across 205 Google reviews, you could say they are absolutely dependable and effective.
Absolute Inspection is located at Hougang Avenue 10, Block 415, Singapore 530415. Opening hours from 9am to 11.30pm (Mon to Sat) | 9am to 9pm (Sun). Contact them at +65 9151 2312.
YHH Plus Enterprise
On paper, YHH Plus Enterprise is a reliable defect inspection company offering a comprehensive site inspection for both home and commercial owners alike. During their inspections, they’ll assess electrical (e.g. wiring, air conditioning, circuit breaker, power points, etc.), mechanical (e.g. water leakage, water ponding, water proofing, etc.), and architectural (e.g. walls, flooring, ceiling, furnishing, etc.).
Their home inspection package consists of three site inspections:
- 1st inspection: To identify and check home defects before submitting the checklist
- 2nd joint inspection: Developer and owner will run through identified defects
- 3rd final inspection: Ensure all rectification has been satisfactorily carried out
But besides the run-of-the-mill defect inspections, they also surprisingly stand out from competitors with their range of unique home improvement services.
They specialise in customised curtains and blinds, Italian-style artistic decorative paint and wall plaster, auto-trackless fully aluminium folding fate installations, as well as their nano anti-slip floor treatment designed to make your floors safer for children, pets, and the elderly.
With a perfect 5-star rating across 123 Google reviews, consider engaging YHH Plus Enterprise as your all-rounded home improvement vendor now. For their prices, get a direct quote from them.
YHH Plus Enterprise is located at 58, Ripley Crescent, Singapore 556234. Opening hours from 9am to 9pm daily. WhatsApp: +65 9455 0766.
Ark Interior
Although primarily marketed as an interior design and renovation company, Ark Interior also demonstrates exceptional professionalism when conducting site inspections for new homes. With over 25 years of experience, their dedicated team ensures your home is in top-notch condition from start to finish.
Their defect inspection rates are as follows:
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | One-time inspection with full photo inspection report of developer’s format for client’s use, including client briefing on findings and recommendations | HDB BTO/SBF: $200 to $450. EC/Private condo: $300 to $750 |
| Comprehensive | Three defect inspections — initial, run-through with client and builder before rectification (joint), and post-rectification (last) | HDB BTO/SBF: $300 to $550. EC/Private condo: $350 to $950 |
And hey, once your new HDB or condo passes all relevant site inspections, you can further engage Ark Interior to begin your renovation works thereafter. Some of their unique home transformation packages include:
- Tapestry Condo Exclusive Package
- Garden Residences Condo Exclusive Package
- Green wall & grass carpet
- Balcony & living room transformation for a bigger space
Ark Interior is located at 62 Ubi Road 1, #06-08 Oxley Bizhub 2, Singapore 408734. Opening hours from 9am to 7pm (Weekdays) | 9am to 5pm (Sat) | Closed on Sunday. Contact: +65 9692 7336.
Advance Inspection
Located at 19 Thomson Hills Drive, Advance Inspection specialises in defect inspections for residential, commercial, and rental apartments. Trained in assessing architectural, plumbing, and electrical defects, rest assured their thorough inspection process adheres to industry standards and complies with BCA’s guidelines.
Each site inspection is comprehensive, covering end-to-end defect checks from start to finish, and lasting four to six hours per session. Below is a breakdown of their defect inspection packages:
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Express (1 trip) | One-time inspection with defect report submitted to both client and developer | HDB: $150 to $300. EC/Condo: $200 to $520 |
| Classic (3 trips) | 1st inspection: Identifying defects and submitting defect image-documented report to client and/or developer. 2nd inspection: Joint appointment with client and developer to run through defects. 3rd inspection: Final checks on developer rectification works | HDB: $250 to $400. EC/Condo: $300 to $620 |
| Enhanced (3 + 1 post-renovation trip) | 1st inspection: Identifying defects and submitting defect image-documented report to client and/or developer. 2nd inspection: Joint appointment with client and developer to run through defects. 3rd inspection: Final checks on developer rectification works. *Extra 1 post-renovation trip | HDB: $350 to $650. EC/Condo: $450 to $1,050 |
While their defect inspections may take longer than expected, they are committed to accommodating your schedule. As long as the property is accessible and with a valid Letter of Authorisation, homeowners don’t need to be present throughout the entire process. Inspections can be conducted on your behalf.
With over 4.9 stars from 159 Google reviews, it’s clear that the team at Advance Inspection is well-equipped to deliver thorough and professional inspections that meet the highest standards.
Advance Inspection is located at 19 Thomson Hills Drive, Singapore 574763. Opening hours from 9am to 9pm daily. Contact: +65 8748 0988.
SG Defect Scan
As a trusted leader in defect inspection services, SG DefectScan offers comprehensive solutions for new, resale, renovation, and rental properties. Their team is certified with BCA Conquas and is backed by over 50 years of combined experience. A typical defect inspection by them will comprise architecture, moisture, electrical, plumbing, structure, and even painting with cosmetic checks. Plus, they even provide lifetime offsite warranty consultations for future defects through WhatsApp.
Besides the standard Defect Liability Period (DLP) inspections, they also offer two other special inspections:
Pre- and post-renovation inspection: For home inspections before and after remodelling, depending on the home’s age and scope or quality of renovation needed
Tenancy and adhoc inspection: Occurs after a tenant or landlord files a complaint about rental property issues where specific inspection is needed
Although their package prices aren’t explicitly stated on their website, you can easily contact them for a direct quote. With at least 236 satisfied 4.8-star customer reviews on Google along with 24/7 customer support, SG DefectScan exhibits both professionalism and responsiveness to ensure a smooth experience for all clients.
SG Defect Scan is located at 22 Sin Ming Lane, #06-76, Midview City, Singapore 573969. Opening hours from 9am to 6pm daily. WhatsApp: +65 8776 6987.
Assure Home Inspection & Consultancy
Need assurance on your home’s quality? Assure Home Inspection & Consultancy, led by founder Ben with over a decade of BCA experience, offers expert site defect assessments. In his time, he has conducted more than 4,000 CONQUAS/QM assessments across all building types in Singapore.
They offer two main packages:
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | One-time inspection with full photo inspection report of developer’s format for client’s use, including client briefing on findings and recommendations | HDB BTO: $250 to $450. EC/Private condo: $300 to $800 |
| Comprehensive | Three defect inspections — initial, run-through with client and builder before rectification (joint), and post-rectification (handover) | HDB BTO: $350 to $550. EC/Private condo: $350 to $1,000 |
Assure Home Inspection is located at 531A Upper Cross Street, #04-95, Hong Lim Complex, Singapore 051531. Opening hours: 9am to 9pm daily. Contact: +65 8834 2742.
Buddyfects
Looking for fuss-free end-to-end defect inspection for your soon-to-be home? The buddies over at Buddyfects might be perfect for the job. Specialising in site inspections across new, resale, rental, and renovated properties, their team provides exceptional service at competitive rates from $300.
Besides their comprehensive defect inspection package, they also provide post-renovation and other adhoc inspection services:
| Package type | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| New homes | 1st inspection: Initial defect checks and report submission to client and developer. 2nd inspection (joint): Run through defects with client and developer to discuss rectification plan. 3rd inspection (final): Post-rectification check | HDB BTO: $300 to $380. Condo/others: $325 to $605 |
| Post-reno or adhoc services | Top up $50 to get post-reno photo report. Adhoc services include: Condition checks. Electrical checks. Architectural checks. Tile hollowness checkers. Plumbing/water ponding. Inventory list report. | Post-reno: From $0.40 per sqft. Adhoc: Price quote upon request |
Still unsure about the quality of their inspection? Just take a look at their 113 5-star reviews on Google! Comments from satisfied customers consistently praise their professionalism and keen sense of attention to detail. Their team also works closely with management for smooth defect rectification, ensuring clients enjoy peace of mind throughout the process.
So far, they’re also among the most affordable site inspection companies for both HDBs and condos on this list, alongside Defects Solution Singapore.
Buddyfects is located at 1003 Bukit Merah Central, #07-43, Singapore 159863. Opening hours: 8am to 6pm (Mon to Sat) | Closed on Sun. WhatsApp +65 8869 5152.
StandByArea
With over 2,000 home inspections completed, StandByArea is a team of dynamic home inspection experts known for offering some of the most affordable rates in Singapore.
Each inspection undergoes a rigorous and thorough process consisting of architectural, mechanical, and electrical checks. For each inspection scope, here’s what their specialists will look out for:
- Architectural: Ceiling seepage, wall/floor cracks, hollow tiles, fixtures and fittings
- Mechanical: Piping condition, water pressure and drainage, water ponding
- Electrical: Electrical points, test appliances
They provide three different types of inspection services: Defects Liability Period (DLP) inspection, general defects, and post-renovation inspections. These services are available in three different packages: bronze (1 trip), silver (3 trips), and gold (5 trips), with the prices for the latter two starting from as low as $150.
| Package tier | Package details | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bronze | One-time inspection with defect report submission to client and developers | HDB/Executive apartments: $125 to $375 (>1,300 sqft: $0.27 per sqft). Condo/EC/Private apartments: $225 to $425 (>1,801 sqft: $0.27 per sqft) |
| Silver | Includes all bronze package services. Three defect inspections — initial, defect run-through with client and developer (joint), and post-rectification (final) | HDB/Executive apartments: $225 to $475 (>1,300 sqft: $0.36 per sqft). Condo/EC/Private apartments: $325 to $525 (>1,801 sqft: $0.33 per sqft) |
| Gold | Includes all silver package services. Includes one-time post-renovation inspection with photo report sent to client. One additional final inspection with client | HDB/Executive apartments: $375 to $775 (>1,300 sqft: $0.58 per sqft). Condo/EC/Private apartments: $475 to $875 (>1,801 sqft: $0.53 per sqft) |
But if these low prices aren’t convincing enough, StandByArea also offers lifetime offsite consultation, full liaison between BSC and developers, and the provision of defects guides. They also provide 24/7 customer support, together with the flexibility of unlimited rescheduling. These dedicated services certainly act as a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction.
StandByArea is located at 113 Bukit Purmei Road, Singapore 090113. Opening hours: 9am to 10pm daily. Contact: +65 8058 0354.