Renovating a Condo in Singapore? Here’s What You Need to Know

Important guidelines for condo renovations.

Living in a condo comes with its fair share of perks, from gated security and private facilities to having a management team oversee the upkeep of the development.

But while these arrangements make condo living more convenient, they also mean that renovating your home isn't quite as straightforward as you might think.

Unlike HDB renovations, condo renovations are subject to rules set by the development's Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST). This means that even before your contractors can enter the premises and start work, there are certain approvals and procedures you'll need to sort out.

The images used in this article are for illustration purposes only.

How do condo renovation guidelines differ from HDB's?

While both HDB flats and private condos are subject to renovation regulations, the key difference lies in who sets the rules and how they're enforced.

For HDB flats, renovation works are governed by a standard set of guidelines established by the Housing & Development Board (HDB). Condo developments, on the other hand, have their own renovation rules and procedures enforced by their respective MCSTs.

Here's a quick breakdown of how they differ:

Do you need a permit before renovating your condo?

Unlike HDB flats, where renovation permits are issued by HDB for certain works, condo owners generally need to seek approval from their development's MCST before starting renovation works.

The MCST is responsible for managing and maintaining the development's common property, as well as enforcing its by-laws. This includes setting renovation guidelines to minimise disruptions to other residents and prevent damage to shared facilities.

As such, you'll typically need to submit a renovation application to your condo's management office, along with supporting documents such as your renovation plans, contractor details, and proposed work schedule.

Depending on the nature of the works, you may also need to obtain approval from relevant authorities, such as the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), before proceeding.

For instance, structural alterations may require approval from BCA, while certain works involving fire safety systems may require approval from the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

It's also worth noting that renovation guidelines can differ from one condo development to another. Just because a particular renovation was approved at another condo doesn't necessarily mean it'll be allowed at yours.

To avoid unnecessary delays, it's best to obtain a copy of your development's renovation guidelines from the management office and clarify any restrictions with your interior designer or contractor before finalising your renovation plans.

What are the permitted renovation hours for condos in Singapore?

Unlike HDB flats, which have standard renovation hours set by HDB, private condos generally follow the working hours stipulated by their respective MCSTs.

While the exact timings vary between developments, many condos typically allow renovation works on weekdays between 9am and 5pm or 6pm, with shorter working hours on Saturdays. Noisy works, such as hacking and drilling, may be restricted to specific hours within these periods.

Renovation works are also commonly prohibited on Sundays and public holidays, although the exact restrictions depend on your condo's house rules.

It's important to note that permitted renovation hours don't necessarily mean your contractors can carry out noisy works throughout the day. Some developments may impose additional restrictions, such as designated quiet periods during lunchtime or limits on the number of days allowed for hacking works.

Again, it's best to check with your condo's management office before scheduling any renovation works, especially those involving hacking, drilling or other activities that could disturb your neighbours.

Why do you need to pay a renovation deposit to your condo’s MCST?

On top of your renovation costs, there's another expense you'll need to account for before work can begin: a refundable renovation deposit payable to your condo's MCST.

This serves as a form of security against damage to common property, such as lifts, corridors and shared facilities, during renovation works. Some developments may also charge a separate fee for protective lift padding, which helps prevent damage when contractors transport bulky materials and equipment.

The deposit amount varies between developments, with some condos requiring $1,000 or more. It's best to check with your management office for the exact amount and any additional charges.

Once renovation works are completed, the management may inspect the affected common areas before refunding the deposit. However, any repair costs or charges arising from damage or breaches of renovation rules may be deducted, subject to the development's regulations.

What renovation works are restricted in condos?

While most interior renovation works are fairly straightforward, things can get a little trickier when you're planning alterations that affect your condo's external appearance or involve major structural changes.

1. Balcony and facade alterations

Thinking of installing Ziptrak blinds, balcony screens or awnings? You'll generally need to seek approval from your MCST first, as these additions can alter the building's facade, which condo managements typically seek to keep uniform across the development.

The same may apply to replacing windows, changing balcony railings or installing grilles, as some developments have specific requirements regarding their design, colour and materials.

2. Building mezzanine levels over void areas

If your condo has a double-volume ceiling or a void area, you might be tempted to build a mezzanine level to create additional usable space.

However, doing so isn't as straightforward as installing a platform. Constructing a mezzanine can increase the unit's gross floor area (GFA) and introduce additional structural loads, which means approvals from relevant authorities, including URA and BCA where applicable, may be required.

You'll also need to check with your MCST, as some developments may prohibit such alterations altogether.

Before committing to either type of renovation, check with your condo's management office and the relevant authorities to establish what's permissible. Unauthorised works could result in costly rectification or removal.

Planning to renovate your condo?

With different renovation guidelines across condo developments, it helps to work with an interior designer who's familiar with the approval processes and restrictions involved.

In fact, there are several reasons why engaging an ID experienced in condo renovations can make the process smoother, from navigating MCST requirements to planning around renovation restrictions.

If you're looking for an interior designer to bring your dream home to life, let us help! Simply tell us about your renovation requirements and we'll match you with up to 5 interior design firms based on your needs and budget, for free.