What is BTO flat inspection about? Inspecting your new BTO flat for defects is crucial and should be done soon after receiving your keys, ideally within the first 30 days.
Have you just picked up the keys to your new BTO flat? While you might be eager to share this milestone on social media, it’s crucial to prioritize a thorough BTO flat inspection. Addressing this early can speed up your renovation plans and help you settle into your new home faster.
What is a BTO flat inspection?
Even though the Housing Development Board (HDB) performs quality checks throughout the building process, it’s possible for minor imperfections to slip through. Luckily, your new BTO flat is protected under a 1-year Defects Liability Period (DLP), starting from the day you collect your keys.
You have a 30-day window post-key collection to identify and report any defects before beginning renovations. This is important to determine whether the defect was caused by the construction or renovation team, and who is responsible for fixing it.
Typically, the repair process is swift, often taking less than two weeks, but it’s wise to coordinate with the Building Service Centre (BSC) to align the repairs with your renovation timeline.
How to conduct a BTO flat inspection?
You can easily perform the inspection yourself without needing professional help. Here’s what you should focus on during your inspection.
Some variations like slight color differences in tiles or discrepancies in grout size are normal due to the materials used and the manual labor involved in construction.
Step 1: Preparing for your inspection
Here’s what you should bring along:
- All keys to test the locks
- Clutch keys for the letterbox and a screwdriver to check the water mains
- Post-it notes or painter’s tape for marking defects
- Writing materials for listing defects
- A mobile charger to test electrical outlets
- A tapping rod to check for hollow tiles
Areas to inspect:
- Surfaces (Walls, Floors, Ceiling): Look for consistent finishes and check for any unevenness.
- Doors and Windows: Ensure they open and close smoothly, check alignment, and functionality of locks and handles.
- Electrical and Plumbing: Inspect the alignment of electrical sockets and test the plumbing fixtures.
- Fixtures and Fittings: Check for smooth water flow and no leaks in taps and shower heads.
Pro-Tips:
- Expect minor tonal variations in tiles.
- Lubricate hinges for better operation of doors and windows.
- Test electrical outlets with a phone charger.
- Use the clutch key to turn on the water and have a screwdriver handy.
- Activate taps and showers to assess water pressure and drainage.
Disclaimer: All new BTO flats come with a 1-year Defects Liability Period starting 30 days from the key collection date. Homeowners must report defects within this timeframe before starting renovations.
Step 2: Inspecting the flat
Systematically go through each section of your flat, using painter’s tape or post-it notes to mark any issues, and document them on your defect list.
Step 3: Schedule a joint inspection with BSC staff
Arrange this through the online portal or by contacting the Building Services Centre (BSC) within your BTO project area. The BSC team will review your reported defects and organize the necessary repairs and a final inspection.
Once your BTO flat inspection is complete, you’re all set to begin transforming your new space into your dream home!
For assistance, contact Imperfeccion Specialists via WhatsApp: +65 8886 7175 or contact us here!