Oral Answer by Ministry of National Development on unauthorised works in buildings

Apr 1, 2019

Mr Leon Perera: To ask the Minister for National Development what measures are taken to ensure that industrial buildings are not subject to unauthorised modifications beyond the initial inspections.

Answer:

Building owners are required to obtain approvals and permits from relevant agencies before commencing any additions and alterations (A&A) works. 

In addition, there is a monitoring regime in place for completed buildings. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) imposes the Periodic Structural Inspection (PSI) regime to ensure that buildings are structurally safe. The PSI has to be carried out every ten years for residential buildings, and every five years for non-residential buildings, including those for industrial use. These on-site inspections have to be conducted by Professional Engineers (PEs) engaged by the building owners. During the inspections, the PEs must also check for any A&A works to the structure of the building, and report their findings to BCA. Any A&A works not in the original BCA-approved plans would be considered unauthorised. 

Stern action will be taken against parties who are found to be involved in carrying out unauthorised works. Under the Building Control Act, offenders may be liable to a fine of up to $200,000, or a jail term of up to 2 years, or both. A PE who fails to perform his duties in carrying out the PSI according to the requirements may be liable to a fine of up to $20,000. 

Members of the public can inform BCA if they come across any structures that they think may be unauthorised.