New condo renovation, lighter work, sharper detail

What new condo owners usually change

• Wardrobe internals, extra storage in the bedrooms and a full-height shoe and utility cabinet at the entrance.
• Lighting: cove lights, track lights or pendant points to replace the basic ceiling lights.
• Feature walls and a TV console sized to the living room, with hidden cabling.
• Window treatments: curtains, blinds or sheers sized to the full window.
• Balcony: flooring tiles or decking, and a balcony screen only if it follows the design the condo management allows.
• Owners renting out a unit often keep it simple: durable finishes, good storage and furniture that suits tenants.

Defects check at handover

• Developers' sale and purchase agreements usually include a defects liability period of 12 months from vacant possession. Check yours for the exact terms.
• Inspect before your contractor starts, so new defects are not blamed on your renovation.
• Check the floors for hollow tiles, scratches and gaps in the timber or vinyl, and the walls for cracks and paint stains.
• Test kitchen appliances, the hob and hood, every tap, the water heater, the floor traps and the air-conditioning.
• Check doors, locks, windows, the balcony glass, and the sealant around the kitchen and bathrooms.
• List everything with photos and submit it through the developer's defects process. Keep a copy.

What condo rules allow

• Renovations are approved by the condo's management (the managing agent, then the MCST once it is formed). Expect an application form, a deposit, contractor registration and lift protection.
• Working hours are set by the condo's by-laws and are often shorter than HDB's, with no works on Sundays and public holidays. Check your condo's rules before booking work.
• Anything that changes the building's look from outside, such as balcony screens, window grilles or the main door, usually needs the management's approval and must follow the approved design.
• Structural work, such as removing walls, needs a professional engineer and building approvals. Most new-condo work avoids it.
• Executive condominiums follow the condo's rules, not HDB's renovation permits.

A realistic timeline

1. 01

   Before keys 2 to 6 weeks

   Measurements from the floor plan, 3D drawings, quotation and the condo renovation application.

2. 02

   Keys + defects 1 to 2 weeks

   Defects inspection and report, site measurements, MCST approval.

3. 03

   Carpentry and electrical 3 to 4 weeks

   Built in the factory while lighting and power points are done on site.

4. 04

   Install and finish 1 to 2 weeks

   Carpentry installation, curtains, lights and cleaning.

Most new condo renovations take about 4 to 8 weeks from keys to move-in, because there are few wet works. Condo hours and lift bookings can stretch this during busy handover months.

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