Just collected your BTO keys? Here is the exact sequence to follow — and the mistakes to avoid.
Before renovation: the groundwork
The weeks right after key collection set the tone for your whole renovation. Rushing into works before checks and approvals are done is the most common — and most avoidable — BTO mistake.
- Attend key collection and activate utilities
- Conduct a thorough defects check and submit to BSC within the defects liability period
- Wait for defects rectification before starting renovation
- Confirm your budget and get rough estimates from contractors
- Check HDB renovation guidelines for your block — especially floor hacking restrictions in new flats
Planning your scope
New BTO flats come with basic finishes, so your renovation is mostly additive: flooring (if you opted out), carpentry, electrical points, lighting, ceiling features and painting. Wet works are lighter than resale — a major cost advantage.
Decide early what is 'now' versus 'later'. Built-in carpentry and electrical points are cheapest to do during renovation; loose furniture and decor can wait.
The renovation sequence
A typical BTO renovation runs 4–16 weeks depending on scope. The sequence matters more than the speed:
- Permit applications (for any hacking or wet works)
- Hacking and masonry (if any)
- Electrical wiring and plumbing rough-in
- Ceiling works and L-boxes
- Tiling and flooring
- Painting (first coats)
- Carpentry installation
- Final painting, light fittings and accessories
- Deep cleaning and handover inspection
Handover and move-in
Walk the unit with your contractor before final payment: test every switch and tap, open every cabinet, check tile alignment in good daylight. A professional contractor will welcome the scrutiny — it is the standard we hold ourselves to at handover.
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