Lesson 5 of 15 · Planning
Which approvals and permits might I need?
Property permission, government approval and licensed-person requirements answer different questions.
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Check three layers
- Property layer: HDB, MCST, managing agent or title restrictions
- Authority layer: URA, BCA, SCDF, PUB or another agency where relevant
- Competency layer: QP, PE, LEW, Licensed Plumber or trained installer
Escalate uncertain work early
Treat hacking, structural changes, additions, external appearance, fire-safety systems, electrical wiring and regulated plumbing as prompts for a written check with the relevant authority or qualified person.
Keep an approval register
- Proposed work
- Decision-maker or authority
- Submission owner
- Status and reference
- Conditions that affect cost or sequence
- Evidence required before work starts
Before you move on
- Every work item has been screened
- Uncertain items have a named decision-maker
- Approval conditions are reflected in the programme
- No approval is inferred from silence
Official sources
Source links checked 7 September 2026. Agency pages and requirements can change, so check the current page for your work before relying on it.
- Application for a renovation permit (Housing & Development Board)
- What to know as a condo owner (Building and Construction Authority)
- Building works not requiring approval (Building and Construction Authority)
- Renovating private residential property (Urban Redevelopment Authority)
- Fire safety plan approval (Singapore Civil Defence Force)
- Engaging Licensed Electrical Workers (Energy Market Authority)
- Plumbing works and Licensed Plumbers (PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency)
General education only. Requirements depend on the property, proposed work, approvals and contract. Check the current agency guidance and use an appropriate qualified professional when the work or dispute needs one.