What is the BTO defects liability period?

How the BTO defects liability period works

Every new HDB flat comes with a Defects Liability Period (DLP) of 1 year, counted from key collection. During the DLP, HDB follows up on items that need rectification in your new flat. In short, the DLP HDB gives a new flat covers the first year after you collect your keys.

Reports go to the Building Service Centre (BSC), which inspects each item with you and assigns a contractor.

When to report and what to check

HDB asks owners to report items within 1 month of key collection and before renovation starts. Reporting early means there is no need to investigate whether a defect came from construction or from renovation. The BTO renovation planner turns your key collection date into this deadline.

On your first visits, walk through each room and list each item with its exact spot. Items to look at include:

• Walls and ceilings: cracks, stains or uneven finishes.
• Floor tiles: chips, cracks or loose tiles.
• Doors and windows: whether they open, close and latch.
• Taps: run each one and check for drips.
• Toilets: flush each one and check that the cistern refills.
• Floor traps: pour in some water and check that it drains away.
• Switches and sockets: try every switch and socket.

SP Group says HDB BTO flats need no appointment to turn on electricity and water, so you can test taps and lights on these visits. You still need an SP utilities account, and SP asks you to allow 7 business days after opening it. For the rest of your move, see our new home move-in checklist.

How to submit and track a report

A BTO defects claim follows the same path each time. HDB sets out how reports are made and handled:

1. Submit your report. Scan the QR code in your Welcome Kit or on the kitchen wall notice to report online, or report at the BSC.
2. Attend the joint inspection. The BSC arranges a joint inspection with you to look at each item.
3. Let the contractor carry out the repairs. The BSC assigns contractors to rectify the items. Repairs usually take less than 2 weeks to complete.
4. Keep the flat secure. Bring your own lock instead of handing over your keys.
5. Check the work at the closing inspection. When the work is done, the BSC arranges a closing inspection with you.

HDB does not recommend handing your keys to the contractor, which is why the lock matters.

Renovating during the DLP

HDB says that if your renovation cannot wait, it can rectify defects during the renovation, if this does not hinder the renovation, or after it. Some minor defects can be rectified after you move in, if living conditions are not affected.

HDB's renovation rules say toilet floor and wall finishes provided by HDB must not be replaced for 3 years from the completion date of the block, because of the waterproofing membrane laid under them. New floor finishes may be laid over the existing ones. Owners must also engage only contractors from HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors.

Check which works need approval in our guide to the HDB renovation permit. When the works are done, our move-in cleaning checklist covers the clean before you move in.

After the defects liability period ends

HDB says that after the 1-year DLP you may engage a repair contractor or approach your HDB Branch for further assistance. Under the Agreement for Lease, owners keep the fittings and fixtures in good condition.

HDB's minor repairs page notes that fixtures and fittings such as pipes, water taps, cisterns, hinges, tiles and switches wear out over time. HDB lists some contractors as a guide only, not an endorsement: you negotiate terms and charges yourself, approve the work before paying and pay the contractor directly. HDB takes no responsibility for workmanship.

The cost depends on the job, so ask whether a contractor charges an hourly rate or fixed price before you agree.

Ceiling leaks after the DLP

HDB says flat owners are responsible for the upkeep of their own flats, including the floor and ceiling slabs. For a leak between two flats, the owners arrange the repair and split the costs. HDB suggests talking to your upstairs neighbour and engaging a contractor jointly to confirm the source. If you live on the highest floor, a leak comes from the roof, which is common property, so contact the Town Council. Our guide to a ceiling leak from upstairs sets out the steps.

When to stop and call a professional

During the DLP, report defects to the BSC rather than hiring your own contractor to fix them.

After the DLP, call a professional for:

• Leaks from pipes, taps or fittings in your flat: call a licensed plumber.
• Ceiling leaks: arrange a contractor jointly with your upstairs neighbour.
• Electrical faults: ask whether the person doing the work is a Licensed Electrical Worker (LEW).
• Anything that needs a licence or a permit: check this before work starts.

Not sure which trade handles a problem? See which service you need. For smaller jobs, you can compare handyman services in the directory.

Questions