Resale HDB Home Inspection Checklist

Inspecting a Resale HDB

Unlike BTOs, resale flats don't come with a defect warranty. What you see (or miss) is what you get. This checklist helps you spot potential issues before committing.

Before the Viewing

Prepare

• Bring a flashlight
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Bring a phone to take photos/videos
• Download this checklist
• Schedule during daytime (natural light)

Research

• Check flat's age and lease remaining
• Look up any ongoing town council works
• Check for any announced en bloc potential
• Research the estate's history

Structural Inspection

Walls

• Cracks (hairline vs structural)
• Water stains
• Bulging or bubbling paint
• Patches (may hide problems)
• Hollow sounds when tapped

Red flags: Diagonal cracks, cracks near windows/doors, water stains

Ceiling

• Water stains (indicates leak from above)
• Cracks
• Sagging areas
• Mould spots
• Peeling paint

Flooring

• Hollow tiles (knock and listen)
• Cracked tiles
• Uneven surfaces
• Stains that won't come out
• Gaps between tiles

Cost if problems found: Tile replacement $300-800 per area

Plumbing Check

Kitchen

• Turn on all taps - check pressure
• Look under sink for leaks
• Check for rust on pipes
• Test hot water (if heater installed)
• Run dishwasher if present

Bathroom

• Flush toilet - check flow
• Look for leaks at toilet base
• Test shower pressure
• Check floor drain speed
• Look for water stains on walls

Service Yard

• Check washing machine tap
• Test floor drain
• Look for rust/corrosion

Cost if problems found:

• Re-piping bathroom: $800-1,500
• Replace toilet: $300-600
• Fix leaks: $80-200

Electrical Check

Power Points

• Test with phone charger
• Look for scorch marks
• Check if plates are secure
• Count number available

Switches

• Test all light switches
• Check fan switches (if applicable)
• Test doorbell
• Test intercom

DB Box

• Open and inspect
• Look for burn marks
• Check labels (what controls what)
• Note if outdated

Cost if problems found:

• Rewiring per point: $100-250
• DB box upgrade: $300-500

Windows & Doors

Windows

• Open and close all windows
• Check for gaps when closed
• Test all locks
• Look at seals (cracked/brittle?)
• Check window grilles condition

Doors

• Open and close smoothly
• Check locks function
• Look at hinges
• Check door frame for warping
• Main door security features

Cost if problems found:

• Window reseal: $100-300
• Door replacement: $200-500

Aircon Units

If Installed

• Turn on and test cooling
• Listen for strange noises
• Check for water leaks
• Ask about age and last servicing
• Check outdoor units

Questions to Ask

• When was last servicing?
• Will units be included in sale?
• What brand/model?

Note: Old aircon may need replacing. Budget $1,200-2,500 per unit.

Kitchen

Cabinets

• Open all doors and drawers
• Check for water damage
• Look at hinges and tracks
• Smell for mould
• Check under sink

Countertops

• Cracks or chips
• Stains
• Loose areas

Appliances (if included)

• Test hob/stove
• Test hood
• Check oven
• Any built-in appliances

Bathroom

Fixtures

• Chips in toilet bowl
• Cracks in sink
• Condition of bathtub/shower
• Mirror condition

Waterproofing

• Any musty smell
• Water stains on walls
• Grout condition
• Floor slope (water should drain)

Cost if problems found: Bathroom renovation $8,000-15,000

Ventilation & Light

Natural Ventilation

• Cross-ventilation possible?
• Windows in all rooms?
• Service yard has window?

Natural Light

• Which direction does flat face?
• Western sun exposure (hot!)
• Blocked by other buildings?

Building & Estate

Common Areas

• Lift condition
• Corridor cleanliness
• Rubbish chute area
• Staircase condition

Surroundings

• Nearby noise sources
• Smell from hawker centres/factories
• Parking availability
• Amenities walking distance

Questions for Seller

1. Why are you selling?
2. Any major repairs done recently?
3. Any recurring issues?
4. How old are the pipes/wiring?
5. Any water leakage history?
6. Neighbour issues?
7. What's included in sale?
8. Last renovation - when and what?

Professional Inspection

Consider hiring a professional inspector for:

• Very old flats (30+ years)
• Signs of structural issues
• Major purchase decision
• Peace of mind

Cost: $300-600 for professional inspection

After the Viewing

If Interested

1. Visit again at different time (morning vs evening)
2. Check during rainy day if possible
3. Talk to neighbours
4. Get contractor to assess renovation needs

Document Everything

• Photos of all concerns
• Notes from your checklist
• Questions still unanswered

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Sources

• HDB Resale Procedures - Official buying guide
• CEA Guidelines - Real estate regulations
• BCA Building Standards - Construction quality

Checklist based on common issues in Singapore resale flats. Always do your own due diligence.