Buying a resale HDB flat in Singapore is an exciting milestone, but you must approach the process with a keen eye. Also, before you commit to a purchase, you need to go through a comprehensive inspection of the property to uncover any potential issues.
But what should you include in your checklist to ensure you’re covering the essential areas and you're about to make an informed decision?
1. Scrutinize the Floors
Start your inspection by carefully examining the floors throughout the HDB resale flat. While at it, pay close attention to high-traffic and widely used areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living room.
When going through your checklist, ask yourself these questions:
Are there any cracked or damaged tiles?
Does the parquet flooring show significant scratches or signs of water damage?
Are there any areas where the floor feels uneven or shows indications of warping?
Are there any stains or discoloration that might indicate underlying issues?
2. Inspect the Walls and Ceilings
Next, turn your attention to the walls and ceilings because these surfaces can reveal a lot about the condition of the HDB resale property.
Include the following in your checklist:
Are there any cracks, especially along joints or corners?
Do you see any water stains or signs of leaks?
Is there any evidence of mold or mildew growth?
Has the flat been freshly painted? If it seems like the property went through a quick and recent renovation, it could be hiding underlying issues.
Are the surfaces uneven, or is the paint peeling?
3. Evaluate the Water Heaters
Before buying a resale flat, don't forget to check the water heater because an old or malfunctioning water heater can be a costly inconvenience.
Here's what to inspect:
Are there any signs of leaks or corrosion around the water heater?
How old is the water heater, and what is its overall condition? Consider replacing it if it's nearing the end of its lifespan.
Test the hot water supply to ensure it's working as expected.
4. Assess Window Conditions
Because windows determine how much natural light and ventilation your HDB resale flat will get, make sure to include the following in your checklist:
Are the window frames free from rust or damage?
Check if the rivets are made of stainless steel and not aluminum because the former will be more durable and resistant to corrosion.
Are all fasteners tight and secure?
Do the windows operate smoothly, and can you open and close them without difficulty?
5. Examine Electrical Works
Faulty electrical work can pose a severe safety hazard once you start a renovation, so thoroughly examine the electrical points and wiring in the flat.
Are there any damaged electrical points or sockets with missing covers?
Do all switches and outlets in the HDB resale flat function correctly?
Check if the wiring is over 20 years old because if it is, it might need rewiring.
Make sure that there are no signs of DIY electrical work which could indicate potential safety hazards.
6. Review the Carpentry Work
If the HDB resale flat has built-in carpentry, such as cabinets and wardrobes, inspect them for any indications of damage or excessive wear and tear.
Here are some items to include in your inspection checklist:
Are the built-in cabinets and wardrobes in good condition?
Do all hinges and handles function properly?
Can you open and close drawers and shelves smoothly?
7. Observe the Door Alignment
To ensure that the doors are aligned and functioning correctly, include the following in your HDB resale checklist:
Do any doors sag or show difficulty in opening or closing?
Are the hinges free from rust or damage?
Are the door frames in good condition, with no signs of warping?
8. Investigate Toilets and Sanitary Fittings
You’ll save a ton in your HDB resale renovation when the toilets and sanitary fittings are in excellent condition and you're happy to keep using the same installations as the previous owner. So, go through the following:
Are there any leaks or drips from the faucets or pipes?
Do the toilets flush properly?
Is the water pressure adequate, and does the water drain efficiently?
Are there any signs of mold or mildew growth in the bathroom?
Are the tiles in good condition, or are they cracked or damaged?
9. Look for Spalling Concrete
To make sure that the HDB resale property doesn’t have structural issues, include spalling concrete in your inspection checklist. And if you find signs of chipping or flaking on the walls, ceilings, or beams, have a qualified professional assess the situation further. In some cases, such an issue may need costly repairs.
How to Renovate Your Resale HDB Flat: Timeline and Procedure
So you've inspected your potential HDB resale flat, and while it might be in good overall condition, there are a few things you'd like to change. Or maybe your inspection revealed some issues that need addressing before you can move in. Either way, it's time to start planning your renovation journey.
Here's a general timeline:
Phase 1: Initial Planning
After buying a resale flat, you’d have to plan and prepare for your renovation project. Here are the steps involved in ensuring your vision comes to life smoothly:
Step 1: Create a Mood Board
Start by gathering renovation inspiration from interior design magazines, websites, and Pinterest. Also, collect images, colors, and materials that resonate with you to help determine your desired style and aesthetic for your new HDB resale property
Step 2: Outline Priority List and Functional Requirements
Identify the key areas you want to renovate and determine their purpose. Are you looking to create a spacious open-plan living area, a cozy home office, or a modern and luxurious interior design for your master suite? Include a checklist of all your desired features and functionalities for each space to guide your renovation plans for your HDB resale property.
Step 3: Engage an Interior Designer/Contractor
Research and interview potential HDB interior designers or contractors, paying close attention to their experience, expertise, and communication style. While at it, review their portfolios, check references, and obtain detailed quotes to compare proposals.
Step 4: Get an HDB Permit
Before commencing any renovation work on your HDB resale flat, ensure you have the necessary permits. This involves submitting an application to the Housing & Development Board and making sure that your renovation plans comply with their regulations and guidelines.
Phase 2: Site Works
Once the planning is complete and permits are in place, the exciting part begins – the actual renovation work for your HDB resale property! While the timelines vary depending on the complexity of the project, here's the typical sequence of events:
Demolition and Hacking (One Week): This involves removing existing fixtures, walls, or flooring that you're not keeping.
Electrical and Plumbing Works (Two to Three Weeks): This stage includes rewiring, installing new electrical points, and plumbing works for your kitchen and bathrooms.
Flooring and Tiling (Two to Three Weeks): This includes laying new flooring, whether tiles, parquet, or vinyl, and tiling the bathroom walls and floors.
Carpentry and Built-ins (One to Two Weeks): During this stage, contractors will install custom-built cabinets, wardrobes, and other carpentry works.
Painting and Finishing Touches (One to Two Weeks): The finishing touches include painting the walls, installing light fixtures, and adding the decor to complete your renovation.
Make the HDB Renovation Process Easier
Inspecting a resale HDB flat is a crucial step in your homeownership journey. But with so many details to consider, from hidden plumbing problems to the structural integrity of the building, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
While you can perform a thorough inspection of the property on your own, having an expert set of eyes can provide invaluable peace of mind. As such, consider partnering with professionals to spot potential red flags. And when you want to get insights into how the space can be transformed, hire interior design services in Singapore.
At Kelli Conception, we can guide you through every step of your renovation journey, from conceptualization to completion. Reach out to us today for a personalized design consultation, and let us help you create a space that truly represents your preferences and enhances your lifestyle.
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