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HOW TO CONDUCT PROPER ASSESSMENT TO IDENTIFY HOUSE DEFECTS

How To Conduct Proper Assessment To Identify House Defects

Whether this is your first home or a new home you just purchased, it can be exciting to start considering renovations to turn it into the home of your dreams. However, it is important to note that you should never do renovations without conducting a thorough assessment of the house to identify any defects.

After getting your keys from your property developer– whether keys to a resale or BTO flat from HDB or a condo unit from a private developer– there is a critical period known as a one-year Defects Liability Period. Within these 12 months, you must conduct a proper inspection to highlight any construction defects so that the respective contractor would rectify them free of charge.

Identify defects before renovation and moving in

It is vital to be patient and take time before you start renovating or moving in. HDB and private developers will only rectify any inherent flaws in the home’s construction. The developers will not take responsibility for any defects and faults resulting from a renovation or staying in the home. You should report any faults early to avoid disputes on who created the damages.

Identify defects before renovation and moving in
Image Credit: https://www.mynicehome.gov.sg/hdb-how-to/move-into-your-flat/a-guide-to-defects-inspection-for-your-new-hdb-bto-flat/

Wall & Ceiling

Cracks, holes and uneven surfaces are areas of concern you should take note of. Look for any cracks and holes in the walls and ceilings. Other defects include watermarks and poor skimming. Should you find any of these damages, use masking tape or post it and a marker to highlight the defect.

Floor tiles

Tap on the tiles’ surfaces with a coin or key to check for hollow tiles on the floor or even wall tiling. A well-bonded tile will produce a high-pitched sound. In contrast, a tile that has not been well bonded to the concrete will have a low-pitched hollow sound. In addition, check all the tiles to ensure they are free from imperfections such as cracks, chips, uneven surfaces or gaps in the wall skirting.

Doors & Windows

Test doors and windows to ensure they are working well– do they open easily and are free from obstructions? Look for other damages, such as missing screws, rust, and dirt. Lastly, check for the gaps between the door and window frames.

Electricity & Plumbing

Check that the internal wiring has been correctly routed by switching the lights on each electrical point. Remember to bring along your inventory list provided by your developer to check that there is the correct number of electrical points.

Fixture & Fitting

Switch the taps on and off when checking the showers and taps at the sink in the toilets and kitchen. This allows you to identify any leakages and ensure that the water flow is smooth.

Piping & Waterproofing

Switch on the taps and flush the toilets before you begin inspecting. Pay close attention to the walls and look for any signs of water staining, which could result from internal wall pipe leaking. Check the ceiling and corners for signs of water seepage as well. Lastly, use a filled pail with water to ensure no drain blockages.

Key Takeaways For Your Defect Inspection

Key Takeaways For Your Defect Inspection

Conclusion

Although you have a year to report the defects, it is best to report them as soon as possible so that you can begin renovating your house. Get these construction defects resolved before renovation to save yourself from stress and additional costs. Editor Interior is an interior design consultancy firm in Singapore with years of expertise in modern luxury interior design for HDB flats, condominium units, and landed property houses. Editor Interior is also one of the few loft specialists in Singapore. Contact us for more information on our services. 

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