[[ Official Property Defects and Rectification ]]

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Just realized there isn't any thread on this at all.

After having seen so many defects being posted online in both HDB and private housing, it'll be great to share with others what you've been through over here.


https://www.bca.gov.sg/Professionals/IQUAS/IQUAS/resolving.aspx

Resolving Disputes on Building Defects​

Interest in private properties has been on the rise in recent years. More and more Singaporeans now aspire to own one. Consumer expectations have also risen, resulting in developers introducing more new design concepts, lifestyle features and materials in order to capture homebuyers’ interest.

As with all things new, there is a keen desire to ensure that no defects are present. However, this is sometimes not so and when it occurs, many are unsure what can be done to get such defects rectified.

The information here is aimed at first-time private-home buyers. It advises them on the possible ways to settle disputes relating to defects when purchasing a property from a developer. The roles and areas of responsibility of the various government agencies are also briefly described, together with those of utility suppliers.

The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has prepared this with the help of the Controller of Housing, Singapore Mediation Centre, Real Estate Developers’ Association of Singapore and the various government agencies. BCA would like to acknowledge their contribution and feedback.

How to deal with a defect in your new home​

Getting the keys to a new home is an exciting time, filled with great anticipation. Though we always expect our dream homes to turn out perfect, sometimes this is not the case. We find that certain items of work are not in accordance with the specifications, or detect instances of shoddy workmanship. What can we do about it? Under the Sale & Purchase Agreement signed with your developer, your developer has certain obligations to fulfill when defects are detected within the Defects Liability Period (usually 12 months). You too, have a part to play in ensuring that the defect rectification process proceeds smoothly. The key steps in the defect rectification process in Clause 17 of the Sale and Purchase Agreement on Developer’s Obligations are listed here.

1. Within a period of twelve (12) months from the date of Notice of Vacant Possession, also known as the Defects Liability Period (DLP), the developer is responsible for any defect that occurs in the unit, the housing project and the common property.

2. Any such defects due to defective workmanship or materials, or to the unit, the housing project or the common property not having been constructed in accordance with the specifications in the Sale and Purchase Agreement, shall be made good by the developer.

3. Such defects must be made good by the developer at his own cost and expense within 1 month of having received a written notice from the homeowner.

4. If the defects are not made good, the purchaser may notify, by sending a Notice of Intent to the developer, of his own intention to carry out the rectification work, furnishing its estimated cost and giving the developer another opportunity to carry out the rectification within 14 days from the date of the Notice of Intent.

5. If the developer fails to rectify the defects after the specified time in the Notice of Intent, the purchaser may proceed to rectify the defects by engaging his own workmen and recover the cost from the developer. Such costs may be deducted from the sum held by the Singapore Academy of Law (http://www.sal.org.sg) as stakeholder for the developer.

What should I do when there are defects in my new home?​

You may follow the steps below, which are based on the terms in the S & P agreement:-

Step 1:​

Give advance written notice to the developer highlighting specific details of the defect(s). If no response is received by one month from the date of notice, proceed to Steps 2a and 3a. (The notice can be in various forms e.g. developer-issued inspection form for reporting defects, letters, etc)

Step 2:​

Make arrangements with the developer to either conduct a joint inspection of the defect, or fix an appointment for the developer to carry out necessary repairs if the inspection is not necessary. (Please note that to agree on a suitable time for repairs to be carried out, coordination by both parties is required.)

Step 3:​

After an appointment has been fixed, contribute by helping to ensure that the area for repair has been cleared, to facilitate the smooth completion of work. (This will help prevent damage to your furnishings and belongings while repairs are being carried out.)

Step 4:​

At the appointed day and time, make sure that someone is in the premises to grant access to the workmen to carry out rectification works.

Step 5:​

Acknowledge to confirm that repairs have been carried out. (This will help all parties to account for the status of the work and prevent any complications that may arise. Additional defects may be dealt with in the same manner as described above)

What if there is no response from developer?​

Step 2a:​

Issue written notice to the developer of your intention (Notice of Intent) to rectify the defects and also provide the estimated cost of such work.

Step 3a:​

You may commence your own rectification works if the developer does not carry out the work within 14 days from the date of notice, and recover the cost from the developer. The cost may be deducted from the sum held by the Singapore Academy of Law as stakeholder for the developer.

Flowchart illustrating the steps to getting defects rectified​

 

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Resolving disputes​

There may be instances where the developer disputes your rectification request, or there may be unresolved issues such as disagreements on defects, repairs that are not carried out satisfactorily, or lack of response to your concerns.

You should first consider resolving your disputes through mediation. In mediation, an impartial third party, called a mediator, will help you and your developer to negotiate an amicable settlement of your differences. The mediator does not decide on the dispute, but will help you and your developer reach a mutual agreement that is in the interest of both parties. Mediation is less time consuming and costly than litigation or arbitration.

If you and your developer are unable to settle your disputes through mediation, you may consider other dispute resolution measures such as neutral evaluation, arbitration or litigation.

If mediation services are required, there are a number of organizations/bodies that provide such services. Three organizations/bodies are highlighted here. A fee may be charged for these services. You are advised to check with the respective organizations/bodies to confirm the fees before engagement.

Singapore Mediation Centre (SMC)​

The SMC is a non-profit organization funded by the Government through the Ministry of Law, and guaranteed by the Singapore Academy of Law. It provides mediation and neutral evaluation services.

The mediation process is facilitated by mediators appointed by the SMC. The mediators include former Supreme Court judges and judicial commissioners, senior lawyers, and senior and respected construction industry professionals, such as architects, engineers, project managers, quantity surveyors and builders. The SMC will match appropriate mediators to disputes. In addition, you and your developer will each pay an administrative fee. In neutral evaluation, you and your developer will select an evaluator from the SMC’s panel of evaluators to provide an impartial written opinion on the merits of the disputes between you and your developer. The SMC’s evaluators also include senior and respected construction industry professionals such as architects, engineers, project managers, quantity surveyors and builders.

For more information, you may visit the SMC web site at http://www.mediation.com.sg
http://www.mediation.com.sg/

Real Estate Developers’ Association of Singapore (REDAS)​

The REDAS Conciliation Panel helps to resolve disputes concerning workmanship, quality of materials used and unmet obligations under the Sale & Purchase agreement. The Conciliation Panel is an independent body comprising professionals who are familiar with the construction and property development industry. The composition of the Panel varies from case to case, depending on the nature of the dispute, and could include architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, valuers, builders, as well as officials from the relevant government agencies.

You will have to refer your disputes to the Panel within 3 months from the date of expiry of the 12-month Defects Liability Period and must have had attempted to resolve the matter privately with your developer, who must be a REDAS member. In trying to reach a fair decision, the Panel will adopt a common sense approach, guided by the law and what is considered established practice in the real estate development industry.

For more information, you may visit the REDAS web site at http://www.redas.com
http://www.redas.com/

Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE)​

CASE is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation that is committed towards protecting consumers’ interest through information and education, and promoting an environment of fair and ethical trade practices. CASE adopts a three-pronged approach in working towards an ideal consumer-business environment.

For more information, you may visit the CASE web site at http://www.case.org.sg

(If arbitration or litigation services are required, you should consult your own solicitors)

 

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https://www.homeanddecor.com.sg/design/defects-checking-in-your-new-home-5-things-you-need-to-know/

Now that you’ve collected your keys to your new HDB BTO, what’s next? You’ll probably be bringing a bag of auspicious items to “roll the pineapple”.

After rolling the pineapple? Check for defects, report them to HDB. Wait for your estate’s Building Service Centre staff to make an appointment to meet you to visit your unit and go through all reported defects. Allow repair works to be done by your estate’s building contractor.

Finally, meet the Building Service Centre staff again to inspect all repair works before closing the case.

HDB Report Defects​

What to do after cleaning up the auspicious items? You start checking for defects in your new home. If you have a good interior designer, your project manager should come by and help you with the defect checking and, in the process, take a good look at the house and improvise on the interior design.

Many HDB BTO owners do their own defect checking and then report these defects directly to HDB for repair.

Depending on the number of defects and severity of your defects, HDB’s repair can take up to two weeks to three months.

For example, my BTO’s floor tile skirting had a major ant infestation. I reported it to HDB, and they managed to get the entire skirting replaced. However, that came at a cost of time. I had a two month delay before my interior designer’s actual renovations could start.

How to report new BTO defects to HDB?​

HDB actually has ample information about BTO defects, how you can check, and how you can report defects for repair. You must be wondering why are there so many defects since it’s a brand new house.

Well, every new BTO estate has hundreds (and sometimes thousands of flats). HDB does have their own quality check personnel going around checking the overall condition of the flats before handover. However, the minor details may be overlooked. Therefore, HDB encourages new homeowners to check their new BTO units for defects before starting renovation.

You can report your defects to:

• Building Service Centre (BSC): Usually located at the void deck
• Building Service Centre Online Form

Is HDB going to repair the defects for free?​

Yes, repairs will be free. You may not be aware, but all HDB BTO flats are covered by the “1-Year Defects Liability Period” (DLP). The one-year period starts from the date of your key collection. Within this period, your new home is still under warranty. So defects will be repaired by your BTO estate’s building contractor. Some important things to note:

• Defects must be reported within 30 days of key collection
• Your BTO estate’s Building Service Centre (BSC)’s staff will be liaising the repairs
• You can borrow tools from your Building Service Centre for defect checking
• You will need to meet a staff from your BSC to go through reported defects
• You will need to meet a BSC staff to go through repaired works at the end too

HDB BTO Defects Checklist by My Nice Home

HDB Defects Checklist​

Before you panic and start engaging professional BTO defect checkers, there’s actually a DIY defect checklist by HDB. Here are the six steps that HDB has recommended for defect checking:

1. Bring all keys to your unit and letterbox: Check all locks
2. Open letterbox for clutch key and screwdriver: Turn on water mains
3. Bring post-it notes
4. Bring pen, pencil, and more paper
5. Bring mobile chargers to test electric sockets
6. Bring tapping rod (or borrow from the Building Service Centre)

HDB BTO Defects Checklist: 6 Things I Learnt​

I recently got keys to my new home. The journey has been hectic yet very enriching. Despite being equipped with the knowledge of, and contacts within the interior design industry, there’s still so much to discover when embarking on the journey on my own.

Getting down to the nitty-gritty (like the colours of the internal carcasses of cabinetry, the types of hinges, which way I’d prefer the door to swing etc.) that I wouldn’t necessarily pay that much attention to after renovation is done.

Well, that was during the design conceptualisation of the home.

Check for Defects ASAP Upon Key Collection​

Went full steam ahead after key collection, and one of the first things I had to do was to check for defects in the home.

Because my apartment is furnished with flooring, doors, wardrobes as well as fully-furnished kitchen and bathrooms, there were more things to pay attention to.

After a firsthand experience, here’re some quick tips on what you should look out for when checking for defects:

1. Check for Hollow Tiles​

We started off checking for hollow tiles. This problem exists due to incorrect installation and you’d want to fix it because a hollow tile may mean it is less stable and more prone to popping over time.

Simply use a coin or metal rod to detect for inconsistent sounds when you knock lightly against your tiles.

2. Check for Scratches​

Next, we scrutinised the surfaces for scratches, cracks or stains. Remember to equip yourself with a torch light as you might not have activated electrical supply in the home during the defect-checking period and as such certain areas in the home might be dark.

3. Check Kitchen Countertop for Stains​

Check for tough stains, scratches or discolouration. You’d want to file these defects for cleaning or polishing as there could be stubborn spots, which require industrial cleaners to completely remove them.

4. Check drain covers and stainless steel fittings​

Take note of rust on fittings, especially in the kitchen and bathrooms. We were unfortunate to have spotted a rusty drain cover and oven door, but they should be as good as new once defects are fixed!

5. Check door frames (and carpentry)​

Remember to bring a ladder to your new apartment too, as you’d want to check that the top of your door frames are properly sealed.

If gaps are spotted, request for a new layer of sealant to be applied so dust, insects and humidity will not penetrate into these exposed crevices.

For condominiums, you would have kitchen cabinet carpentry installed upon key collection. Make use of that ladders to climb up and inspect every door hinge, exterior and interior laminate of the cabinets and wardrobe carpentry.

6. Check windows and glass doors​

Take note of scratches or cracks on windows in all rooms, as well as glass doors such as those in the shower area in your bathroom, or at the balcony.

Not just about aesthetics, existing cracks or defects in these areas may pose danger in your home, so be sure to check thoroughly.

 

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https://www.propertyguru.com.sg/property-guides/defects-inspection-checklist-bto-ec-condo-28627

Defect Inspection Checklist for New BTO, EC and Condo Home Owners​

by PropertyGuru Editorial Team
Last updated 16 Jun 2020 • 6 min readHome Owners

Checking your new home for defects is especially important if you are buying property that has just been built, namely new HDB Build-to-Order flats (BTO), executive condominium units (EC), as well as private condominium units.

In such cases, you are entitled to having the defects rectified for free by HDB or the developer if you notify them during the defects liability period, which is usually one year from the date you are notified about the collection of keys.

Tip: Check home for defects and report them before starting renovations​

One year seems a pretty long window, but for most homeowners, the ‘real’ timeline is much shorter as you’ll need to report all defects before your renovation contractors start works. This is because the damages reported then could have well been caused by you or the renovators instead of HDB or the private developers as the apartment is no longer in ‘brand new’ condition.

Reporting defects for HDB BTO flats​

For HDBs, after you collect your keys, the defects reporting deadline is shortened to 7 days. When you collect your keys, you should receive the Defects Feedback Form. Once you’re done inspecting, you should report it to your estate’s Building Service Centre (BSC).

​

Defects inspection checklist for new HDB BTO, EC and condo home owners​

Here’s a checklist of defects to look out for.

1. Walls and ceilings​

Inspect the walls and ceilings for any hairline cracks, stains and lines. Stains could be a sign of water seepage which can cause serious problems for you later on, while cracks could indicate problems with the foundation or structure of the building. Wider cracks usually translate to more serious issues.
Also look out for aesthetic defects, like shoddy painting or brush marks. While not serious, you can get them rectified for free if you point them out.

2. Floors and tiles​

Look out for any scratches and chips on the floor tiles, as well as stains which could indicate water seepage. You also want to ensure your flooring is even and consistent, with no tiles sticking out or unevenly laid.
You might also want to tap your floor tiles to see if any sound hollow, as a hollow sound could indicate that the tile has not be well-assembled.

3. Doors and gates​

Your doors and gates should open and close smoothly and easily with your keys. Check to see if there are any problems with the mechanisms of the door and that there are no screeching noises when opening and closing. Also ensure that the door and the gate are properly aligned. There should be no rust on the hinges of the door or gate.
If there is a peep hole in the door, check to see that it has been properly assembled and gives you a clear view. Another thing to look out for is the door magnet, which should be properly aligned and show no signs of mould.

4. Windows​

Open and close the windows to ensure that this can be done smoothly and that there is no screeching noise. You should also lock and unlock the windows using the keys to ensure the mechanism is functioning smoothly.
Inspect the glass for scratches, chips, bubbles or other defects, and ensure there is no rust on the hinge, lock or frame. You also want to ensure that the windows are properly aligned and installed.

5. Plumbing​

Plumbing issues can be very costly to rectify and cause a lot of damage, so take special care to ensure there are no leaks anywhere in the home. Look out for stains, not just on the walls and floors, but also around valves and fittings and at the bottom of cabinets.
Also look at the visible parts of all the pipes to make sure they look sturdy and that there are no signs of stains or leaks, especially around the joints.
Another sign of a possible leak is corrosion around valves and fittings, so take a closer look to ensure all is well. Valves, fittings and connections are typically located in the bathroom and kitchen. Turn valves on and off wherever possible to check for leaks.

6. Electrical​

Inspect all electrical outlets, including telephone and cable TV jacks, to ensure the are no cracks, mould or other defects. You should also bring along an electrical device (like a charger, for example) to make sure the power points are working.
If you are inspecting a resale property, get a licensed electrical worker to inspect the wiring conditions to check if re-wiring is required, as electrical wiring has a limited lifespan.

7. Toilet​

Inspect the toilet, including the toilet bowl and toilet seat, to make sure there are no cracks, stains, scratches, leaks or water seepage. There should be no problems with the flushing system. Also flip the toilet seat and cover up and down to ensure they can be moved smoothly.

8. Taps, sinks and shower head​

Inspect all basins, taps and shower heads to ensure there are no cracks, scratches, leaks or water seepage. Water should flow smoothly with acceptable water pressure, without sputtering or making strange noises, and there should be no dripping or leakage after the tap or shower is turned off.

10. Clothes drying rack​

If your property is fitted with a clothes drying rack, inspect it to ensure there are no cracks or defects, and that the drying rack can be manipulated smoothly.

Tip: if you have more time, check the BCA common defects checklist​

While some defects are merely aesthetic, others might be structural or even dangerous. The above list features the main areas for checking, but if you can afford the time, it may be worth the trouble to do a more thorough check and have any issues rectified as soon as possible.

On their website, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has a quality standards section that has a more comprehensive checklist for defects checking. There’s also a new homeowner’s guide that references the standards used in CONQUAS (BCA’s Construction Quality Assessment System) for assessing workmanship quality.

The use of CONQUAS is not mandated and developers are free to use any other guidelines to benchmark quality, but it’s nonetheless good content to reference when checking for defects.

… And with that, you’re all set. Happy checking and enjoy your new home!

 

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https://www.straitstimes.com/singap...kang-hdb-says-most-issues-resolved-in-2-weeks

Residents complain of defects in new Fernvale Dew estate; HDB says most issues resolved in 2 weeks​

Residents at Fernvale Dew have raised concerns about issues such as ponding in their new estate, on top of shoddy workmanship and multiple defects in their new Build-To-Order flats. PHOTOS: SCREENGRAB FROM CYN TAN/FACEBOOK

Elaine Lee
UPDATED

APR 5, 2023, 7:32 PM SGT

SINGAPORE - An online petition that made claims of poor workmanship in a nearly completed Housing Board Build-To-Order (BTO) estate has garnered more than 100 signatures.

Headlined “Feedback on shoddy workmanship Fernvale Dew”, the Change.org appeal was started by Fernvale Dew resident Kelvin Leong, who claimed that HDB had started issuing keys to homeowners in the estate in Sengkang, despite ongoing construction works there.

“Most of the owners, especially those batches who have collected keys in early February 2023, identified multiple defects with shoddy workmanship, ranging from hollow and chipped tiles, scratches on main door, scratches on bedroom doors and frames, slanted skirtings and DB (distribution board) box cabinets and many more,” the petition read.

The petition then claimed that the car park near where the distribution of keys to homeowners was not ready as of March 25, and has caused “much distress and further delays to a vast majority of the homeowners here”.
It then claimed that there were “severe delays” in the rectification of defects identified by the homeowners by the Building Service Centre (BSC), whose contractors allegedly disguised or concealed the defects instead of fixing them.

Mr Leong told The Straits Times that it took 28 days for the defects in his new flat to be satisfactorily rectified.

“Although it is not 100 per cent perfect, we have decided to accept (it) and move on from there,” he said.

Besides the issues mentioned in the petition, resident Cyn Tan complained in a Facebook post that there was heavy ponding outside her unit when it rained. The accompanying video to her post showed large amounts of water flowing down from the sky terrace to her unit.

Ang Mo Kio GRC MP Gan Thiam Poh told ST that some residents had approached him with feedback about the defects of their flats, which they reported to HDB after collecting their keys for their new BTO flats.

“I’ve gone down to the blocks to take a look at the issues a few times and I’ve conveyed the residents’ concerns to HDB for their assistance,” he said. “A few residents had come back to me and said the matter had been resolved.”

Mr Gan added that the HDB contractor will be around for a year to attend to defects reported by residents. He said he will continue working with the residents and HDB to resolve any other unresolved matters. “We are committed to solving all the issues that the residents face as they collect the keys to their new homes,” he added.


HDB told ST that the bulk of the feedback from some flat owners of Fernvale Dew pertain to minor defects on surfaces, fixtures and fittings, such as uneven wall surfaces or painting, scratches on doors or window frames, and skirting joints.

“These defects do not affect the structural integrity of the building nor compromise the functionality or liveability of the flats, and can usually be rectified easily and fairly quickly.”

It also explained that it has been working with the contractor to prioritise the construction of flats first, over other precinct areas.

It added that seven of the 10 residential blocks had been completed as of March 31, with the remaining blocks to be completed by mid-April. Some 513 households have collected their keys in the 1,188-unit development.

It added that construction works for areas such as the sky terrace, landscape deck and other precinct areas are still ongoing, even as the keys are progressively handed out to new owners.

The statutory board said that all newly completed HDB flats are covered by a one-year defects liability period, effective from the date of key collection. Flat owners can report defects to the on-site BSC, which would arrange for a joint inspection with the owner to confirm the flaws. A BTO contractor will then “target to complete rectification works within 14 days”.

An online petition that made claims of poor workmanship in a nearly completed BTO estate has garnered more than 100 signatures. PHOTO: SCREENGRAB FROM CHANGE.ORG

“In a minority of cases where more time is required either because of nature of defects or the high volume of reports arising from periods of peak key issuance, the BSC will inform the residents accordingly, if more time is required,” HDB said. “In the case of Fernvale Dew, the vast majority of issues reported by residents have been resolved within two weeks.”

HDB said the water ponding issue along the common corridor of the ninth storey of Block 400B was due to water discharge points being partially blocked by debris from the ongoing works at the sky terrace.
“The issue has since been resolved, after we cleared the debris and further extended the scupper drain along the common corridor to improve drainage,” it said.

It added that there was water splashing onto the linkway at the second storey of the landscape deck near Block 401F because of a gap in the canopy roof of the landscape deck, which has since been sealed. A pipe has also been installed to drain the rainwater away.

HDB said: “We thank residents of Fernvale Dew for their feedback, and seek their continued patience as we work with the BTO contractor to rectify any remaining defects in a timely manner.”

 

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https://www.todayonline.com/singapo...plain-mould-hdb-details-steps-prevent-2086726

Punggol BTO residents also complain of mouldy facade; HDB says all new flats get 2 coats of algae-resistant paint​

Leonard Leong/TODAY
Mould is visible on the exterior of HDB block 234B Sumang Lane in a photograph taken on Jan 11, 2023.
Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok, and join our Telegram channel for the latest updates.

• Several residents at a BTO project in Sumang Lane have complained of mouldy exteriors to their housing blocks
• This follows similar complaints from residents at a Sengkang BTO project last week
• HDB said on Wednesday that for all its new flats, one coat of water-based sealer and two coats of algae-resistant emulsion paint are applied
• On mouldy exteriors of Sumang Lane flats, Member of Parliament Sun Xueling said that repair and redecoration works for the precinct will be happening this year

BY

JANARTHANAN KRISHNASAMY​

BY

NUR HIKMAH MD ALI​

Published January 11, 2023
Updated January 12, 2023

SINGAPORE — Residents at another relatively new Build-to-Order (BTO) project in Sumang Lane at Punggol West are complaining about mouldy facades, following a similar report of mould in BTO project Anchorvale Parkview in Sengkang.

Several residents in affected blocks in Sumang Lane told TODAY on Wednesday (Jan 11) that they are worried about mould on the Housing and Development Board (HDB) blocks, although one noted that they live near a large forest which could contribute to the problem.

The affected blocks in Sumang Lane are part of a BTO project called Matilda Court.

In response to queries from TODAY, HDB said on Wednesday that it was aware of mould forming at the two BTO projects and is "looking into the matter" with the relevant town councils.

On Monday, a Facebook user by the name of James Ng posted photos of Block 233 Sumang Lane in a Facebook group called "Complaint Singapore", showing mould growing on the exterior of the flats.

He said in his post that the flat is only six years old, questioning what was wrong with the paint used by HDB contractors.​

Following similar complaints posted by fellow netizens on his post, Ms Sun Xueling, Member of Parliament (MP) for Punggol West commented that the tender of Matilda Court estate’s repair and redecoration works will be happening this year, and that it had already been included in the workplan.

TODAY's visit to the area on Wednesday confirmed the presence of mould on the exterior of blocks 233C, 234A and 234B Sumang Lane.

Last week, Facebook user Jane Wendy posted photos of Anchorvale Parkview’s housing blocks showing their mouldy outer facade walls. She said in her post that despite being only five years old, the block which she lives in looks “worse than a 30-year-old building”.

Two days after the post, Sengkang Town Council said in response to TODAY's queries that the area is scheduled to undergo repair and redecoration works this year, and that the council is looking to expedite the process.

The Workers' Party-led town council also said then that the call for tender for the repair and redecoration works at the neighbouring Anchorvale Cove cluster was closed on Dec 31, 2022, and a similar preparation for Anchorvale Parkview is ongoing.

RESIDENTS WORRY MOULD INDICATES POOR WORKMANSHIP​

TODAY spoke to four residents at the affected blocks in Sumang Lane, all of whom were concerned about the formation of mould on the exterior of their flats.​

Ms Kanmani Panneeirchelvam, who has been living at the flat for almost five years, said: “This mouldy thing has been appearing from the third year of us staying here. I don’t think it’s a good sight for our environment.”
The 43-year-old customer service officer also questioned whether the mould indicated poor quality of workmanship of the flat.

“Some parts of our house like the doors (that came with the flat) and the toilets — the quality is not very good. The door is made of wood so it rots very fast and the toilets choke up often,” said Ms Panneeirchelvam.
She added that she had not experienced problems of mouldy flats previously when she lived in older estates in Ang Mo Kio for about three years, and in Tampines.

Leonard Leong/TODAYMould visible on the exterior of HDB block 234A Sumang Lane in a photograph taken on Jan 11, 2023.
Both Ms Panneeirchelvam and her husband, Mr Sathiyanathan Segeran, a 45-year-old Grab driver, said that they hoped the relevant authorities can conduct maintenance work to remove the mould.

“We hope that after the feedback, our MP will respond to it and something is done since the public is noticing it. Our MP (Ms Sun Xueling) is very prompt in her response and we are actually quite impressed by her. I’m sure she will do something,” said Ms Panneeirchelvam.​

Resident Ms Noor Zilah also said she was concerned about the “unsightly” mouldy exterior and the quality of the flats.

The 41-year-old administrative assistant who has been residing in the flat for five years said: “I was one of the first few occupants of this BTO estate, and it’s only been five years but it’s already like this. The mould makes me worried about the quality of this building.”

“I hope whoever we voted for, they have to at least make checks or do maintenance work on the flats,” said Ms Noor.

Another resident, Mr Jared Quak, said that he had been noticing the mould grow since at least three years ago.
“It’s not nice. This estate is not even that mature or old but yet the condition is like this,” said Mr Quak.

The 35-year-old who works in retail added that there has not been any repainting efforts so far.

He also said that the environment of the BTO estate could have contributed to the growth of mould on the flats’ exterior.
“I think it’s because this area is very humid since it’s very near to a huge forest. In fact, not only the exterior of the flats is affected, everything that we own like bags or shoes also get mouldy very easily.”

“
I think it’s because this area is very humid since it’s very near to a huge forest. In fact, not only the exterior of the flats is affected, everything that we own like bags or shoes also get mouldy very easily.
Mr Jared Quak, 35, resident of Sumang Lane HDB block affected by mould
”

“I hope HDB can repaint the flats every year or conduct regular maintenance work,” said Mr Quak.
TODAY has reached out to Ms Sun for further comment.

HDB OUTLINES MEASURES TO PREVENT MOULD ON BLOCK EXTERIORS​

In its response to TODAY's queries, HDB said that the external walls of all new HDB flats are painted with one coat of water-based sealer and two coats of algae-resistant emulsion paint.

It elaborated that the water-based sealer enables better paint adhesion to the surface and is commonly used on external walls before the application of algae-resistant emulsion paint.

“The sealer and emulsion paint used in HDB blocks complies with the Singapore Standard 579 and the Singapore Standard 345 respectively,” it said.

HDB added that a six-year warranty period for external painting, which covers defects or imperfections including algae growth, paint peeling and discolouration, is given to the town councils when the blocks are handed over to them for management and maintenance.

“During this period, the building contractor and their paint specialist are required to rectify any defects or imperfections that are detected.”

TODAY had reported that Anchorvale Parkview residents had complained about the unsavoury sight of the residential blocks as well as a “damp smell”, although five residents out of the 10 who were interviewed said they were not disturbed by the mould on the walls outside.

Some, however, said that the mould has also appeared inside their homes as well, adding that they had to repaint the walls themselves.

 

[kiatme]

For BTO :
Anything and everything needs to be checked - after collection

Chorological order :
General
- Check all tiles for hollow (flooring, toilet wall, kitchen wall)
- Check for signs of mold and wet spots or cracked paint, if have means possible leakages
- Check for paint, subjective if you want them fixed since you are going to most likely paint anyways
- All door handles whether working, windows sliding or casement
- Holes, along the side of the tiles, doors, anything, silicon never apply
- Rust on any hinges or anything
- Electrical points all working
- Laminate whether glued properly
- Windows - check for scratches, dents

Entrance
- Door bell, check if its stuck
- Gate, check keys working or note, check the gate handle when you open fully does it hit the neighbour unit or wall, if hitting the wall check that the handle doesn't cause a dent on the wall
- If your pipes are right outside your place, check the inside for top (the sliding mechanism thing dont know what is it called, some are stolen or missing)
- Check keys if working or not
- Check any dents on main door
- If your tiles are tilted at entrance, check if its smooth

Living Room
- DB box, check all the internet points are working
- Electrical points

Rooms
- Check door keys
- Check internet points
- Electrical points
- Check door frames, dents holes etc, the hole at the door handle if got any foreign object

Toilet
- Pour water to check if water goes down smoothly
- Check water pressure
- Check toilet piping, leakages and if can flush properly
- Check the any loose fittings at shower or anything
- Check toilet bottom silicon properly or not
- Check flooring trap
- Check tiling to see smooth or not
- Window hinges, window any problem

Kitchen
- Check yard, any holes any foreign objects
- Check tiles any problem (walls)
- Any window bifold door working etc
- Doorbell connection working

 

[kiatme]

Number 1 tip :
Don't complain on social media or online for defects, reporters like to search for such articles, go down and interview etc and post on their websites.

Imagine 5 years later when you sell, a buyer google - XXX fernvale, then they see, lousy workmanship.

 

[windwaver]