A comprehensive room-by-room interactive checklist for Singapore condos. Check off items as you go — your progress is saved automatically so you can close the browser and come back.
Unit Configuration
How do I check for defects in a new condo in Singapore?
Inspect before any renovation starts — once contractors are in, it becomes harder to attribute damage to the developer. Go room by room: tap every tile with a rod or your knuckle to listen for hollow sounds, test every power point with a phone charger, run all taps and flush all toilets, and check that windows and doors open and close without catching. Turn on the air-conditioning and let it run. Mark every defect with masking tape and photograph it immediately with location context. A thorough inspection for a standard unit takes 2–3 hours — don't rush it.
What counts as a defect under the Defect Liability Period (DLP)?
A defect under the 12-month DLP is a fault caused by defective workmanship, substandard materials, or construction that doesn't match your Sale and Purchase Agreement specifications. This usually includes hollow tiles, hairline cracks, water seepage, misaligned doors or windows, malfunctioning built-in appliances, and poor paintwork. For strata-titled condos, it also covers defects in common property — not just inside your unit. What it does not cover: wear and tear, and damage caused by your own renovation contractors. Note that this applies to new launch condos only — not resale.
What should I bring to my condo key collection?
Bring a tapping rod or use your knuckle for tile checks, a spirit level app, a phone charger to test every socket, a torch for dark corners, and masking tape with a marker pen to flag defects as you go. Have your camera or phone ready to photograph everything. The checklist above covers the rest — follow it room by room and don't try to do it from memory.
What do I do after I find defects?
Submit a written defect notice to your developer using their official form or portal — include photos, exact locations, and a description of each issue. You can find your sales agent to advise. You have the full 12-month DLP to submit, so don't feel pressured to hand in everything on the day of key collection. Once the developer receives your notice, they have one month to carry out rectification. If they fail to do so, give them formal written notice with a final window to complete the repairs before you engage your own contractor. Keep all correspondence, photos, access records, and any repair quotations — you can recover contractor costs from the stakeholder sum held by the Singapore Academy of Law if it comes to that.
Do I need to hire a professional defect inspector, or can I do it myself?
There is no legal requirement to hire one. Many homeowners DIY successfully with a good checklist, clear photos, and a written defect list — that is exactly what this tool is for. If you want a second layer of assurance, you may consider hiring a professional inspector. However, most property owners do it themselves or with the help of their sales agent, and many defects identified by an inspection firm may later be covered up during renovations. If you are systematic and thorough, DIY should be enough. If you are unsure whether something qualifies as a defect, an experienced agent's opinion during the DLP can be valuable — feel free to contact Kelly.
Kelly and Mark have 17 years of experience in Singapore's property market. Whether you're collecting keys to a new launch or doing due diligence on a resale, they can guide you through every step.
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