Log out

You’re logging out from your Ohmyhome account. Continue?

BROWSE
Condo

Simple Guide To Defects: Newly Developed Properties

Ohmyhome

Ohmyhome

Congratulations on getting the keys to your newly constructed home! But wait, something feels a bit off…

As you walk around your newly completed unit, fully furnished or bare, you noticed a few cracks here and there, or certain areas feel a bit dodgy. No worries, because the Defect Liability Period (DLP) acts as a warranty from the developer, and they are able to fix these defects for you for free, within a certain period of time.

So prepare a high-quality camera and some measuring tape, because we are here to hunt for defects!

Step 1: Make sure that that your property matches the details of the SPA

When purchasing a newly developed unit, you will have signed a legal document called the Sales & Purchase Agreement (SPA). In the SPA, it would have detailed your unit specifications, the dimensions of your units, and the accessory parcels under your purchase.

Hence, it is best to bring out a tape measure and ensure that your unit dimensions and specifications actually fit the description given in the SPA. Make sure that the ceiling is not an inch or two taller or shorter, or square footage has been nipped off or added.

Step 2: Test Fixtures

simple-guide-defects-newly-developed-properties-test-fixtures

Do test out the lighting and electricity fixtures, and make sure that all of them are working properly as expected. Pay attention to the switches and the pieces installed, and make sure that they are not chipped or cracked.

Run the showers and taps to make sure that the water is well connected and there are no leaky pipes. Ensure that the water pressure is adequate for daily consumption as well.

Step 3: Inspect workmanship

Workmanship includes the finishing, the construction quality of the walls, floor and ceiling. Do inspect the areas around the windows for any cracks or visible defects, and ensure that the door opens and closes properly with the right amount of gap between the floor and the door. The last thing we need is a crooked door, now do we?

Step 4: Proper Documentation

The developers will hand you a handy defects inspection list, but it pays to take the extra effort in coming up with your own defects report. Make sure that the coloured tapes used to mark the defects will not damage the wall paint. Do take plenty of well-lit photos, preferably and close up and a wide shot, so that the contractors have a clear idea of what to fix and where to find them.

Have a backup copy of the defects documentation, and make sure to tick off the items that have been fixed. Ensure that all of the defects have been rectified before the defect liability period is over.

Additional Tip

It is important to note that, under the Housing Development Act (HDA) 1966, you are only allowed to claim for defects that were caused during the construction of the property, before you have received your keys.

The problem is, you might damage the walls or floors during the renovation process, making it difficult for developers to justify fixing certain defects of the property. Hence why it is a good practice to fix the defects prior to the renovation process of the property itself.

Your home is a safe haven that helps you weather the storm of daily life. Hence, it is important to ensure your slice of heaven is as free of defects as it could be. And remember, always take advantage of the defect liability period, because defects are not worth stalling for!

If all of these sounds way too complicated, fret not, because Ohmyhome is here to help you on your home-buying journey, from searching which property is the best for you, all the way to receiving the keys! Book our dedicated agent services today!


Related posts:

Subscribe Now

Get a notification every time we upload a new blog post.

SHARE WITH YOUR FRIENDS!

Featured Blogs

Your one-stop guide for must-know HDB tips

© 2021 Ohmyhome •  Policies  •   Terms
© 2021 Ohmyhome •  Policies  •   Terms
Follow us on facebook instagram youtube

get an agent

Sell with an Agent

Dedicated experts at your service

Documentation Services

Leave the paperwork to us

do it yourself

Prefer to do-it-yourself?

Check out how our platform can help

Post a Listing for Free

Download the app and connect with buyers

RESOURCES

Ohmyhome E-Valuation

Know the value of your property in seconds!

Calculate Seller’s Stamp Duty

Find the amount payable when selling

How to Sell an HDB

A step-by-step guide to selling HDB

How to Sell my Private Property

A step-by-step guide to selling condo/landed

OHMYHOME E-VALUATION