POINTERS TO RENOVATING YOUR FLAT

After You Have Selected Your Flat

It is never too early to start conceptualising your renovation. Notice the different type of renovations around you. Take note of details and the type of finishes, fittings and furniture. You can consult your relatives and friends who have carried out renovation work.

Try to bear in mind the size of your flat and the needs of every occupant. Take into consideration your storage needs, the type of finishes, fittings and furniture you are getting and the location of power points and lighting.

Source for your renovation funds and budget your renovation with an affordable cost. Compare the various renovation loan packages of the banks and their terms & conditions. With the budget in mind, prioritise the items you want.

Locate a few contractors for assessment and comparison. Make sure that the specifications given to these contractors are the same. Assuming the specifications are the same, the quotes may still vary because of different standards in workmanship and service provided. Thus, never just go for the lowest quote. Assess carefully and cautiously the quotations, look out for any hidden cost, check if all the items discussed are quoted and included. You may also check with HDB to confirm the validity of the contractors' HDB Licence and/or to confirm with RADAC the status of its accreditation. Contractor has to be registered with HDB in order to carry out certain renovation job in a HDB flat. Stringent criterion must be met before a contractor could be accredited with RADAC. Should you have any dispute with your contractor, RADAC could only help to mediate the dispute if the contractor is accredited with RADAC.

It is important to note that only those renovation companies/firms which have registered with RADAC and have duly renewed their accreditation upon expiry are called RADAC accredited renovators. Any of their associated companies/firms which do not registered with RADAC are not to be called RADAC accredited renovators. Each registered companies/firm is a separate entity, RADAC only recognise the one which is registered with RADAC for accreditation.

Once You Have Received Your Keys

Make sure that you are given all the necessary keys to the house and all the finishes, fittings and accessories are in place. Check for any defects on the wall, floor and wall tiles. Doors and windows should be able to open and close properly and the sanitary utilities should be in function. Notify the HDB Branch Office personally with the list of defects within the stipulated period.

After The Appointment Of A Contractor

All requirements should be communicated clearly to your contractor. Never rely on verbal agreement, always sign a renovation agreement/contract. When you sign the renovation contract with your contractor, take extra note on the fine prints on the agreement. If the contractor is accredited with RADAC, it is advisable to use the RADAC Standard Contract which states the guidelines on the contractual obligations between the contractor and the consumer.

Contractors are required to seek approval from the Housing And Development Board for some of the renovation items being carried out. Contractors have to be registered with HDB in order to apply for the renovation permit. You may check with HDB if the contractors are registered with the authority. Always make sure that all these items have been approved by HDB before commencement of the renovation. You can refer to the Directory of Accredited Renovators, the annual publication of RADAC for the HDB guidelines governing renovation works.You should constantly supervise the renovation works and make known to your contractor any dissatisfaction. Bear in mind that a good rapport with your contractor is beneficial to both parties. Keep track of the progressive payments you have made and always ask for receipts.