HDB Inspection Before Completion: What Gets Checked?
Before a resale flat changes hands, HDB inspects it for unauthorised renovation works that could damage HDB property or affect structural stability. That inspection won’t tell you whether the aircon works or the bathroom leaks.
There are 2 separate visits: the HDB Branch inspection and the buyer’s final inspection. As the buyer, you arrange the second visit with the seller before the resale completion appointment.
HDB inspection vs the buyer’s final inspection
| HDB Branch inspection | Buyer’s final inspection | |
|---|---|---|
| Who arranges it? | HDB Branch arranges an inspection with the seller | Buyer and seller arrange it directly, with their agents if engaged |
| When? | During resale processing, after HDB accepts the application | Before the resale completion appointment |
| Main purpose | Check for unauthorised renovation works within HDB’s stated scope | Check that vacant possession can be delivered, and review the agreed handover condition |
HDB’s resale procedures explain the Branch inspection. Its completion guidance for buyers separately tells buyers to arrange an inspection with the sellers.
When someone mentions “the inspection”, check which visit they mean.
When does HDB inspect the flat, and how long does it take?
HDB says its Branch Technical Executives will arrange the inspection after accepting the resale application. The resale procedures also state that approval will be withheld if the Branch hasn’t inspected the flat.
For the buyer’s final visit, arrange access close to completion while leaving time to raise problems. HDB’s completion FAQ for sellers says sellers should vacate and arrange the buyer’s inspection before the appointment, subject to an approved extension of stay.
The official guidance linked here doesn’t promise a standard inspection duration or prescribe a fixed number of days before completion for the buyer’s visit. Follow your appointment details rather than assuming every inspection takes 10 minutes.
What does HDB check before completion?
The Branch inspection focuses on unauthorised renovation works that may damage common property or other flats and affect the building’s structural stability.
It isn’t a valuation, a full defects survey, or certification of the condition and safety of all renovation works. Buyers remain responsible for checking the flat and its renovations; HDB’s resale procedures advise engaging a Qualified Person, such as a Building Surveyor, at the buyer’s expense to help with these checks.
Under section 10 of HDB’s resale terms, non-compliant windows can hold up completion until the seller rectifies them at their expense.
“HDB has inspected” isn’t a warranty for the flat. I’d still want to know why there’s a water stain on the ceiling.
Seller’s checklist: prepare and resolve outstanding works
Before the Branch visit:
- Confirm the appointment and arrange access to the flat.
- Gather any renovation approvals, plans and contractor records you have.
- Make the areas that need checking accessible.
- Ask the Branch directly about any renovation whose approval status is unclear.
If HDB identifies unauthorised works, the resale procedures require the seller to regularise or remove them before completion. Confirm the required work and follow-up with the Branch; HDB’s completion FAQ says another inspection may be required.
Don’t assume there’s a universal 3-week deadline or that a buyer’s undertaking automatically clears the issue. Get the Branch’s requirements for your flat.
HDB’s resale terms also prohibit renovation works pending completion. Plan your buyer’s renovation for after legal completion and possession, with the necessary approvals.
Buyer’s checklist: inspect before resale completion
At the final visit, check the flat against the OTP and any written agreement about which items stay. Bring those records and your earlier photos so you can spot changes.
Use this checklist for your visit. It isn’t an official HDB defects checklist.
- Vacant possession: Check that occupants and belongings will be cleared as required, unless an approved extension applies.
- Agreed items: Check the fixtures, fittings and appliances included in the sale. Don’t assume everything from the viewing stays.
- Visible condition: Look for fresh damage, water stains, leaks, cracks and damage previously hidden behind furniture.
- Basic functions: With permission and available utilities, try taps, flush toilets, and test agreed appliances. A brief test won’t reveal every fault.
- Doors and windows: Check operation and obvious damage. Get professional help for safety or compliance concerns.
- Handover items: Account for door, gate and letterbox keys, duplicates, and any agreed remotes or access devices.
- Evidence: Take dated photos and record unresolved issues in writing.
Don’t leave the first serious condition check until this visit. HDB’s flat-viewing guidance already asks buyers to consider cracks, leaks and spalling concrete while choosing a flat.
What if you find defects or the seller hasn’t moved out?
Photograph the problem and tell the seller and your agent, if you’ve engaged one, promptly. Be clear about whether you’re reporting an existing maintenance fault, missing agreed items, fresh damage or a failure to deliver vacant possession.
HDB’s resale terms, sections 12.1 and 12.2, place the purchase on a caveat emptor (buyer beware) basis and say HDB won’t mediate disputes over defects or maintenance faults.
Finding a defect doesn’t automatically entitle you to demand a repair, deduct money or postpone completion. Ask your conveyancing solicitor about your contractual position before taking any of those steps, and contact the HDB officer handling the transaction if completion requirements are unresolved.
What changes if there’s an extension of stay?
An approved temporary extension of stay can let the seller remain for up to 3 months after completion. You become the legal owner at completion, while vacant possession is delivered when the extension expires or ends.
HDB describes this as a private arrangement requiring the buyer’s agreement. Its extension terms explain how the vacant-possession requirement changes.
Record the condition before completion and arrange another inspection when the seller moves out. Put the move-out date, remaining items and responsibility for damage in writing.
Our completion, handover and extension-of-stay guide covers the wider handover arrangements.
Quick answers about HDB inspection before completion
Does HDB arrange the buyer’s final inspection?
You need to arrange it with the seller. The Branch inspection is a separate step.
Does passing the HDB inspection mean the flat has no defects?
No. The Branch inspection has a limited scope. It doesn’t replace your own condition checks or professional advice.
Must the seller fix every defect before completion?
Don’t assume that. Unauthorised renovation works have specific HDB requirements; ordinary maintenance faults and contractual handover disputes need to be considered separately.
