Condo Renovation Approval in Singapore: Step by Step

Condo owners do not apply for an HDB permit, but they still need permission before renovating. Condo renovation approval comes from the development's management corporation (MCST) or management office, and each has its own forms, deposit and house rules. Here is the usual process so you can plan around it.

Every condo differs. Treat this as a typical sequence, and get your development's current renovation guidelines from the management office.

Step 1: Get the renovation guidelines

Before you finalise a schedule, ask the management office for the renovation guidelines, the application form, the deposit amount and the permitted working days and hours. These can be stricter than general rules, and they affect your timeline.

Step 2: Choose your contractor with the rules in mind

Many developments set conditions for contractors, such as being licensed with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and holding public liability insurance. Confirm what yours requires before you sign with a firm. Ask whether your designer has worked in your development before, which usually makes the process smoother. Browse condo interior designers on Layered.

Step 3: Prepare the application

You will typically need:

• The renovation application form, signed by the registered owner
• Layout or design drawings showing the proposed works
• The contractor's company details and registration
• A copy of the contractor's public liability insurance (a minimum of S$1 million is commonly asked for)
• Proposed start and completion dates and working hours

Step 4: Pay the deposit and fees

Most condos require a refundable renovation deposit to cover possible damage to common property, plus an administrative or permit fee. Deposits are commonly in the range of about a thousand dollars up to several thousand, and in some developments more. It is refunded if the inspection after works finds no damage.

Step 5: Wait for approval

Routine applications are typically processed in around 7 to 14 working days. Structural changes or large wet-area works may need a professional engineer's review or a council decision, and can take several weeks. Do not let any work start before written approval.

Step 6: Renovate within the rules

During works, expect to:

• Keep to the approved working days and hours
• Protect lifts, corridors and common areas
• Keep noisy works within allowed times
• Display any approval or permit the condo requires

Step 7: Final inspection and deposit refund

When works finish, the management may inspect common areas and check that the works match the approved drawings. If everything is in order, the deposit is refunded.

Condo renovation approval: costs and timelines to expect

Condo renovations are usually priced per square foot, commonly quoted at about S$50-S$120 per square foot for a full renovation. See our condo renovation cost and rules guide for ranges by unit size, and add the approval time to your schedule. Our renovation checklist includes the condo approval items.

Common reasons applications get delayed

• The form is not signed by the registered owner.
• The contractor's insurance certificate is missing, out of date or below the required cover.
• Drawings are unclear about wet-area or structural works.
• The deposit or fee has not been paid.
• The proposed schedule falls outside the permitted working hours.

Submitting a complete application the first time is the easiest way to keep to the 7 to 14 working days that routine approvals often take.

Frequently asked questions

How long does condo renovation approval take in Singapore?

Routine applications often take about 7 to 14 working days. Structural changes or large wet-area works may take several weeks because they can need a professional review.

How much is a condo renovation deposit?

It depends on the development and scope. Commonly it is from about a thousand dollars to several thousand dollars, and it is refundable if no damage to common property is found.

Do I need a licensed contractor to renovate a condo?

Many condos require a licensed contractor with public liability insurance. Check your development's guidelines before you sign with a firm.