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Collecting the keys to your new BTO or condo after years of waiting is exciting and you probably are looking forward to commence renovation as soon as possible. However, before you schedule your interior designer to start work, it is important to check for defects to ensure that you are not taking over a faulty unit. Most importantly, catching defects early will save you on the extra repair costs down the road.
All new HDB flats are covered by a 1-year Defects Liability Period (DLP) which starts from the date of key collection. During this period, you can report construction defects for rectification by the Building Service Centre (BSC) without additional cost.
You have to report the defected items within 1 month of key collection and before you start renovation works. It usually takes less than 2 weeks to complete the repair.
In this article, we will focus on the services and prices for 4-room HDB and 1,000 sq ft condo.
Uncle Defect
With close to 3,000 Google reviews, Uncle Defect is one of the top choices for new homeowners of both HDB and private properties. Founded by Uncle Amos, a former interior designer who has more than 10 years of experience in the industry, the company was also featured in various newspapers and press.
There are a total of 5 different packages offered, from the Bronze package with a one-time inspection, to the Diamond package that offers 5 sessions of inspection from the point of key collection up till post renovation. Each inspection takes around 1 hour to complete including a briefing at the end to go through the items with you.
In terms of customer service, Uncle Defect provides reports with photos compiled in the format required for formal submissions. They are also contactable via Whatsapp for enquiries and appointment booking.
Reviews: Reports are very detailed, able to identify many defects that could have been easily overlooked, organised in their findings and proposed solutions.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $280 | $450 |
| Silver | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $380 | $550 |
| Gold | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $480 | $650 |
| Platinum | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Identify defects after renovation by your ID and contractors | $680 | $900 |
| Diamond | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Identify defects after renovation by your ID and contractor, Check if defects are fixed by interior designer or contractor | $780 | $1,000 |
Contact Uncle Defect at 9323 3338 or their website https://uncledefect.sg.
A1 Inspection
A1 Inspection is a close alternative for Uncle Defect, with more than 1,200 five star reviews on Google. The team is made up of certified inspectors from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RCIS) and CONQUAS, which are reputable institutions for construction and property related management.
There are 3 packages offered - Bronze (1 trip), Gold (3 trips) and Diamond (5 trips). The first trip will take around 2 to 4 hours while the subsequent trips take around 30 to 60 minutes to verify that the defects have been rectified. Both HDB and condo defect checks are available with similar processes, the only difference would be the types of reports provided for submission to the respective authorities.
Reviews: Very detailed and efficient, had 3 guys to split up and check so it was fast but thorough, explained each issue clearly.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bronze | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $200 | $298 |
| Gold | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $300 | $390 |
| Diamond | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Identify renovation defects and prepare video report for interior designer or contractor, Check if defects are fixed by interior designer or contractor | $578 | $668 |
Contact A1 Inspection 9366 6622 or their website at https://a1inspection.sg/.
Absolute Inspection
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, and is certified by the RCIS.
The confidence and pride that they have in their work is shown by how they offer free lifetime off-site technical consultations on all home defections, even beyond the completion of your inspection package.
Compared to the previous 2 companies, Absolute does not have as many packages. They only offer 2 types - Essential which is a basic package and Comprehensive which includes joint inspection and handover inspection after the rectifications are made. From the website, it seems that they do not have a package for inspection from start (after key collection) to end (after renovation is completed), but you can still enquire for inspection services for your own renovation with IDs and contractors.
Reviews: Punctual and detailed, knowledgeable and able to deliver the problems to the developer in a straightforward manner.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $350 | $500 |
| Comprehensive | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $450 | $650 |
Contact Absolute Inspection 9151 2312 at https://absoluteinspection.sg.
SG Defect Scan
Defect Scan is also made up of a team that is certified with BCA and CONQUAS. A typical defect inspection by them will comprise architecture, moisture, electrical, plumbing, structure, and even painting with cosmetic checks.
Besides providing defect checks after you have collected your keys, Defect Scan also offers checks on post-renovation works and for rental properties. If you want to assess your home before you rent it out and after the tenant has moved out, they are able to do so as well.
In terms of convenience, Defect Scan is available through Whatsapp for consultations where you can ask questions regarding suspected issues without having them specially go down on site. You can also book their services through group buys and platforms like homerunner. Although they did not list out their pricing packages on the website, we found some HDB packages that are available on FindGroupBuy.
Reviews: Quick to check, thorough in explaining the problems and the severity, prompt in replying to Whatsapp.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB |
|---|---|---|
| 3 trips | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $480 |
Contact SG Defect Scan at 8776 6987 or via their website https://www.sgdefectscan.com.
Imperfeccion Specialist
With more than 15 years of experience in the industry, Imperfeccion Specialist is led by a team of ex-BCA surveyors who are dedicated to identifying defective works and safeguarding your home from future repair and maintenance problems.
Combining technology, the team provides comprehensive image reports with detailed descriptions of defects, and uses the NOVADE app to make the submissions on your behalf. Even though they seem to be a younger company with a total of 306 homes inspected in their portfolio, they have 4.9 stars on Google reviews with most customers commenting on their excellent service and professional work. One of the reviews mentioned that they are the only defect checker available within 24 hours in the Tengah estate.
Reviews: Professional and comprehensive service, gave clear instructions to the developer about the problems, and reasonable price.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic (1 trip) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $180 | $240 |
| Premium (2 trips) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection | $240 | $290 |
| Essential (3 trips) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $330 | $390 |
| Ultimate (4 trips) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Identify defects after renovation by your ID and contractors | $420 | $510 |
Contact Imperfeccion Specialist 8886 7175 or via the website https://imperfeccionspecialists.sg.
Advance Inspection
Advance Inspection specialises in defect inspections for residential, commercial, and rental apartments. The team is trained in assessing architectural, plumbing, and electrical defects according to industry standards and BCA’s guidelines.
While the typical inspection takes around 1 hour, the site inspection by Advance Inspection lasts around 4 to 6 hours per session, covering end-to-end defect checks from start to finish, including detailed reports for submissions. If you are worried about the process taking too much of your time, you can opt to have the process done without your supervision as long as the property is accessible with a valid Letter of Authorisation.
Reviews: Keen eye for details, explained the impact of the defects and gave practical solutions, prompt in scheduling appointments.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Express (1 trip) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $220 | $280 |
| Classic (3 trips) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $320 | $380 |
| Enhanced (4 trips) | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Check for defects after renovation by your ID and contractors | $500 | $600 |
Contact Advance Inspection at 8748 0988 or via their website https://www.advanceinspection.sg.
W&W Inspection
Founded by a NUS alumni with a degree in civil engineering and masters in project management, W&W Inspection has been around for more than 10 years and has inspected more than 2,000 homes.
The team is trained under CONQUAS, ensuring that they are updated with the BCA standards when it comes to inspection and construction. In terms of actual customer reviews, W&W has more than 200 reviews on Google with full five stars ratings. From the customer’s experience, W&W is efficient in pointing out details including grout and stains on flooring, tile hollowness and even hinge issues in the bomb shelter.
The inspection takes around 2 hours in general and they would communicate with the developer or contractor about the issues with photo reports. It is also mentioned on the website that a customer has won a lawsuit against his ID using the reports provided by W&W to prove his case.
Reviews: Easy to work with, professional service, competitive pricing.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 trip | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $230 | $388 |
| 2 Trips | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $335 | $418 |
| 3 Trips | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $590 | $458 |
Contact W&W Inspection at 9006 1965or via their website https://www.wwinspection.net/.
Ark Interior
Ark Interior has a slightly different business model compared to the other companies. Rather than a fully specialised defect checking company, it is primarily marketed as an interior design and renovation company. With their expertise in renovation, the team will be able to advise you further on how to resolve the defects when spotted.
In fact, you can obtain a one-stop service at Ark Interior - from defect check to renovation work if you have not decided on your interior designer. They provide all-in packages for both condo and HDB flats. An example would be the Tapestry residences where a 3-bedroom package starts from $20,800.
A Google review mentioned that the biggest advantage of Ark Interior is the relationship that they have with developers. As they are well acquainted with the developers, you will get preferential treatment and a less stressful experience during the process.
Reviews: Experienced in condo defect inspection, included renovation advice, concise presentation and report.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | Identifying defects and prepare report for submission | $350 | $450 |
| Comprehensive | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $450 | $550 |
| Post-reno 4 | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Check for defects after renovation by your ID and contractors | $650 | $850 |
| Post-reno 5 | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications, Check for defects after renovation by your ID and contractors, Check if defects are fixed after rectification by your ID and contractors | $750 | $950 |
Contact Ark Interior at 9092 2891 or via the website https://www.arkinterior.com.sg.
Buddyfects
Looking for fuss-free defect inspection for your new home? The buddies over at Buddyfects might be perfect for the job. Specialising in site inspections across new, resale, rental, and renovated properties, Buddyfects provide a standard three trips package that is compliant with BCA.
On top of the 3-trips inspection package for DLP, they also provide post-renovation and other adhoc inspection services for electrical, architectural, tiles, plumbing and more. Buddyfects have more than 100 reviews on Google, with full five star ratings from happy condo owners and customers who were referred by their ID for post-renovation checks.
Reviews: Efficient and prompt, identified defects that a layman wouldn’t have known, followed through with the rectifications.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| DLP package | Identifying defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $350 | $375 |
Contact Buddyfects at 8869 5152 or via their website https://www.buddyfects.com.
Assure Home Inspection
Assure Home Inspection & Consultancy is a Singapore-based defects inspection company founded by Ben Yeo (not the actor), who was a Senior Manager at BCA overseeing CONQUAS/Quality Mark which is Singapore’s yardstick for construction quality.
Services provided include defect checks for brand new, resale, rental and renovated properties. During the checks, they will identify defects and unacceptable workmanship within three areas - architecture, mechanical and electrical according to BCA quality standards.
With more than 100 Google reviews and full five star ratings, most customers are pleased with the professionalism and patience the team have in explaining the issues and coordinating with the developers and contractors to rectify the problems.
Reviews: Exceeded expectations, accommodating, able to catch even the minor defects.
| Package | What is included | Price for 4-room HDB | Price for condo (1,000 sq ft) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Essential | Identify defects and prepare report for submission | $350 | $400 |
| Comprehensive | Identify defects and prepare report for submission, Meet with BSC officers for joint inspection, Check if defects are fixed after rectifications | $450 | $500 |
Contact Assure Home Inspection at 8834 2742 or via their website at https://assurehic.wixsite.com.
Condo Defect Liability Period (DLP)
For newly constructed condos, there is usually a 12 months DLP from the date of key collection or 15 days after the Temporary Occupancy Permit (TOP) is issued, whichever comes first. During this period, you can report defects to the developer for rectification free of charge.
What are some common defects in new BTO and condos?
- Walls and ceilings - hairline cracks, stains and lines
- Flooring - scratches, stains and uneven floor tiles
- Doors and windows - difficulty in opening and closing, screeching noises, rust and locking issues
- Plumbing - stains and leaks on floors, walls, valves and fixtures
- Electricity and wiring - mold, cracks and power points not working
- Toilet and bathroom fixtures - stains, cracks, leaks, water seepage, flushing and water pressure issues
- Service yard drying rack - defects and mechanism issues