So, you're finally getting the keys to your dream home – congratulations! But before you start your renovation or the housewarming party, there's a crucial step: the pre- and post-renovation defects check. As exciting as moving in is, the last thing you want is to discover hidden issues once you've settled. That's where a professional defects checker comes in. We hired Absolute Inspection for our BTO defects check and here's what we did.
Start with Pre-Renovation Inspections:
Before you even embark on your renovation journey, consider a pre-renovation inspection. This ensures the base of your home is in good condition. It helps you know exactly what needs fixing from the get-go and gives you a baseline to compare against after the renovation.
Trust me on this. We walked into our BTO thinking everything was perfect, only to have Absolute Inspection uncover a whole list of issues – hollow tiles, unevenly sealed windows, loose handles, and more.
Post-Renovation Inspections (this is a must-do!):
I learnt it the hard way that a post-renovation inspection is just as important as a pre-renovation one. During our handover, our ID was conveniently absent, and her replacement had an interesting approach to "defects" – essentially, denial. We were told things like, "This isn't a defect. Any inspection company would agree." Little did he know, we'd already had a post-renovation inspection done, and the issue was flagged (and agreed to be fixed) by our ID.
Thankfully, our inspection company, Absolute Inspection, provided detailed reports after each check. A quick screenshot of their findings shut down the argument and got our issue resolved. Trust me, having that professional backup is invaluable!
But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? Let's dive into the 3 things you absolutely MUST know before hiring a defects checker, plus 7 tips to ensure a smooth and successful inspection. P.S. These are the reasons why we chose Absolute Inspection too.
3 Critical Facts About the Defects Checking Industry:
- Unregulated Industry: Shockingly, anyone can open a defects check company in Singapore – even without experience! Horror stories abound of unprofessional companies and missed defects. Do your research and choose wisely!
- Untrained "Inspectors": Not all inspectors are created equal. Some may lack the knowledge or even the right attitude to conduct a thorough inspection. Ask about their SOPs, experience, and training.
- Certifications Don't Tell the Whole Story: While some companies tout certifications like BCA CONQUAS, this doesn't guarantee expertise in BTO inspections. Look for companies that invest in ongoing training and calibration for their inspectors.
7 Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Defects Checker:
- Read online reviews: Google and social media can be valuable resources for gauging a company's reputation. We chose Absolute Inspection as they had many positive reviews online.
- Seek recommendations: Ask friends, family, and neighbours in your new estate for their experiences. Absolute Inspection was also highly recommend by our neighbours who engaged them before.
- Ask about their SOPs: A structured approach ensures all areas of your home are thoroughly checked. This is something we really liked about Absolute Inspection, cause that way they don't miss anything.
- Check if detailed reports are provided: Based on my understanding not all of them give detailed reports listing all the issues along with photos. These reports are actually very important cause it saves you time from having to consolidate the issues for the contractor and it is also proof of when the issue was first spotted. Do also check how detailed their reports are, as it would give you an idea of their level of detail and professionalism too.
- Inquire about the package: How many inspections are included and if re-inspections are covered as well? Absolute Inspection covers one inspection, one walk through with Building Service Centre (BSC) to point out all the issues and one re-inspection after BSC fixes the issues. So it saves you the headache of having to personally check what's done and what's not.
- Investigate certifications: Find out what the certifications mean and if the inspector assigned to you is qualified. There are many uncertified defects check companies in Singapore, and I've heard some horror stories from neighbours. One regretted rushing into defects check and not engaging Absolute Inspection just because they couldn't get an earlier slot.
- Trust your gut: If something feels off, it probably is. Don't hesitate to walk away and find a company you feel confident in. Sometimes you just need to cut your losses early.
Choosing the right defects checker is a crucial step in your homeownership journey. Don't be fooled by flashy marketing or empty promises. We highly recommend Absolute Inspection, but please do your research, ask the right questions, and prioritize experience, training, and a proven track record. Your future self will thank you. I hope this helps you to understand the importance of choosing a reliable defects checking company in Singapore!
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