Many resale buyers assume HDB checks the flat for them. It doesn’t, at least not for defects. After a resale application is accepted, the HDB Branch inspects the flat to check for unauthorised renovation works and whether the windows meet the Building and Construction Authority’s requirements. It isn’t a check on leaking pipes, hollow tiles, cracked walls or faulty wiring.
Resale transactions in Singapore, both HDB and private, follow the principle of caveat emptor (“buyer beware”). In practice, it’s up to you to check the property’s condition before you buy. Anything you find after completion is usually yours to fix.
Our General Defects Inspection, which we offer as a resale home inspection, is built for this. We inspect the property and give you a detailed report, so you can decide, negotiate or budget for repairs with real information.
Price
| Service | Who it’s for | What’s included | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Defects Inspection | Resale buyers, landlords, property agents | One inspection plus a detailed report on defects and any repairs or maintenance needed | From $200 |
| RICS-certified inspector | Buyers who want a RICS-certified professional | Add-on | Extra charge |
The final price depends on property type and size. Contact us for a quote. See our full price list.
HDB’s resale inspection vs a defect inspection
| HDB resale inspection | Our General Defects Inspection | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Checks for unauthorised renovation works and window compliance | Finds defects and maintenance issues across the home |
| Timing | About 5 working days after the resale application is accepted | When you arrange it with the seller, ideally before you commit |
| Covers seepage, cracks, hollow tiles? | No | Yes |
| Covers piping, water pressure, drainage? | No | Yes |
| Covers electrical points? | No | Yes |
| Report to you | No defect report | Detailed report |
If unauthorised works are found during HDB’s inspection, the seller must regularise them before the sale can be completed. That protects the building. It doesn’t tell you what repairs you’ll face after moving in.
What we check in a resale home
Older homes have had years of use and often more than one renovation. We look at the same three areas we cover in all our inspections, with attention to wear and past work.
Architectural
- Ceiling seepage: stains, peeling paint or damp patches, often below bathrooms.
- Wall and floor cracks: where they are and how extensive they look.
- Hollow tiles: common in older flooring and previous renovations.
- Fixtures and fittings: doors, windows, grilles, built-in carpentry and sanitary fittings.
Mechanical
- Piping condition: visible pipes and joints, including signs of old leaks.
- Water pressure and drainage: every tap, shower and floor trap.
- Water ponding: wet areas that don’t drain properly.
Electrical
- Electrical points: switches and sockets.
- Appliances: testing of any included appliances that can be run on the day.
When to arrange the inspection
A defect inspection is most useful before you’re locked into the purchase, so you still have room to ask questions, negotiate or walk away. Talk to your agent early about arranging access with the seller.
If a seller answers your questions about the property’s condition falsely on purpose, they may be liable for misrepresentation. It’s better not to find out that way, though. MND’s advice is for buyers to inspect and be satisfied with a flat’s condition before committing, and to consider engaging a qualified professional if they need help.
For viewing tips, read how to spot property defects before buying in Singapore. To see how findings can support price discussions, read using defect inspection reports to negotiate better property deals.
Also for landlords and agents
- Landlords: inspect before a tenancy to record the property’s condition, and after it to compare. See our guide to inspecting before renting out.
- Property agents: give buyers or sellers a clear, independent view of a property’s condition.
Our process
- WhatsApp us with the address type (HDB, condo or landed), size and your preferred date.
- Access: you or your agent arrange access with the owner. Having water and electricity on lets us test flow, drainage and points.
- Inspection: we go through the property systematically and talk you through what we find.
- Report: you get a detailed report on defects and on repairs or maintenance to consider.
- Questions later: offsite consultation stays available after the job.
Why Easy Inspection
- More than 2,000 home inspections completed
- 356 Google reviews, rated 5 stars
- Full-time inspectors only
- RICS-certified inspector available at an extra charge
- Transparent pricing from $200 for a General Defects Inspection
Resale home inspection FAQ
Doesn’t HDB inspect the flat before completion?
HDB inspects to check for unauthorised renovation works and window compliance. It doesn’t assess general defects or give you a defect report. Checking the flat’s condition is the buyer’s responsibility.
Is there a warranty or DLP on a resale flat?
No. The 1-year Defects Liability Period applies to newly completed HDB flats from key collection, and new private homes have their own DLP under the sale agreement. A resale property is sold in its existing condition.
What if the inspection finds problems?
You can use the report to ask the seller questions, discuss repairs or price, or plan a renovation budget. Get legal advice from your lawyer on your options under the option or contract.
Can you inspect a resale condo or landed house?
Yes. The General Defects Inspection covers resale condos, and we inspect landed homes on a quote basis. See landed property inspection.
How long does it take?
It depends on the property’s size and condition. A typical flat with two inspectors takes around 45 minutes to an hour, plus a short walk-through of the findings. Larger or older homes take longer.
Book a resale home inspection
WhatsApp +65 8098 2345 with the property type, size and your preferred date.
Suggested internal links: /defect-inspection-price/, /how-to-spot-property-defects-before-buying-in-singapore/, /using-defect-inspection-reports-to-negotiate-better-property-deals/, /complete-home-inspection-guide-before-renting-out-your-property/, /wall-cracks-in-singapore-homes-when-they-signal-serious-structural-concerns/, /hidden-moisture-and-mold-issues-in-singapore-homes-what-homeowners-must-identify-early/, /landed-property-inspection/, /water-seepage-vs-leakage-singapore/