What defects should you check at BTO key collection?

Before you start: the 1-month window

All newly completed HDB flats are covered by a 1-year Defects Liability Period (DLP) from the date of key collection, and HDB follows up on items that need rectification. HDB asks you to report the items within 1 month of key collection and before renovation works begin. This saves investigating whether a defect came from construction or from renovation.

Plan your walk-through soon after key collection, before any works start. The BTO renovation planner shows the date your 1-month reporting window ends. If you are reading up on HDB renovation permits, do the defects check first. Bring painter's tape, a pen, your phone and a small mirror.

How to inspect

MyNiceHome suggests going through each space systematically. Label each defect with painter's tape or sticky notes, and note it in a defects list. Using the same order in every room keeps a BTO defect inspection steady.

Take a photo of each marked item so its location is clear when you submit a request.

Checks with a source behind them

Windows

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) suggests using a mirror to check the screws and rivets above and below each casement panel. Rivets should not be broken or corroded, screws should not be loose or rusty, and friction stays should not be bent or loose. On sliding windows, check that the safety stopper and angle strip are in place and the panel slides smoothly. Our window safety inspection guide covers more.

Main door

HDB treats the main entrance door as a fire safety barrier. Fire-rated entrance doors have a door closer, a self-closing safety device that must not be removed. Open the door, let go and check that it shuts on its own.

Home fire alarm device

MyNiceHome notes that the home fire alarm device (HFAD) on the ceiling can be tested with its Test/Reset button. Press it: the light should blink and the alarm should sound.

Residual current circuit breaker (RCCB)

The RCCB cuts off electricity in the flat when it detects an earth current leakage, says HDB. With dry hands, press its test button, labelled T: it should switch off. If it does not, it may be defective. Reset it after testing. The Energy Market Authority (EMA) says the RCCB can be identified as a switch with a "Test" button.

EMA requires electrical works at your premises to be done by a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW). EMA says electrical work in an HDB flat needs a Licensed Electrician, the class of LEW approved for loads of up to 45kVA.

Cistern

PUB offers households leak detection tablets for flushing cisterns. Drop one tablet into the cistern tank, put the lid back and wait 10 to 20 minutes without flushing. Blue water in the bowl means a leak. You can also watch for a ripple in the bowl water.

Floor traps

HDB says water overflowing from a floor trap comes from solid matter or grease blocking it. Run a tap or shower and check that water drains away rather than overflowing.

The full BTO defects checklist

This is HomezyPro's practical list, not an official HDB list.

Report defects to the BSC

Within the DLP, HDB sets out this process:

1. Submit a request. Scan the QR code in the Welcome Kit or on the notice on your kitchen wall, or go to the temporary Building Service Centre near your home.
2. Joint inspection. The BSC arranges a joint inspection and assigns contractors.
3. Closing inspection. When the work is done, the BSC arranges a closing inspection with you.

Repairs usually take less than 2 weeks, HDB says. Bring your list and photos to the joint inspection.

After the defects window

If your renovation cannot wait, HDB can rectify defects during the renovation, if this does not hinder it, or after. Some minor defects can be fixed after you move in. After the DLP ends, engage your own repair contractor or approach your HDB Branch for assistance. Read more about the BTO defects liability period.

Defects are one part of a wider BTO key collection checklist. Our new home move-in checklist covers other tasks, and post-renovation cleaning comes once the works are finished.

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