SingaporeWhat defects must a developer fix during the defects liability period?
During the defects liability period, a developer must fix all defects in the common property and individual units that arise from faulty design, materials, or workmanship, as required under the Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act.
What the Law Says
The Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act (BMSMA) sets out the developer’s obligation to rectify defects in newly completed strata developments during the defects liability period.
Under Singapore law, the developer is legally responsible for identifying and fixing defects that affect the common property or individual units. These include faults arising from poor design, substandard materials, or defective workmanship.
The defects liability period (DLP) typically begins on the date of vacant possession and lasts for 12 months, unless otherwise specified in the sale and purchase agreement. During this time, the developer must remedy all such defects at no cost to the purchaser or management corporation.
The BMSMA does not define 'defects' exhaustively but places the duty squarely on the developer to ensure compliance with contractual and statutory standards of construction quality.
Statutory TextThe developer shall, during the defects liability period, make good all defects in the common property and in any unit which arise from faulty design, materials or workmanship.
— Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act, s. 13 — Developer's duty to make good defects
What to Do
Check your Sale and Purchase Agreement for the exact start date and duration of the defects liability period.
Inspect your unit and common areas within the first few weeks after taking vacant possession.
Report any suspected defects (e.g., leaking pipes, cracked tiles, faulty wiring) in writing to the developer before the DLP ends.
Keep copies of all defect reports, correspondence, and photographic evidence.
If the developer fails to rectify valid defects, escalate to the Commissioner of Buildings or seek legal advice.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.