Why are small condo projects in Singapore more prone to defects?

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Small Condominium Projects Face Higher Risk of Construction Defects

New data indicates that boutique private residential developments in Singapore, typically with fewer than 50 units, are disproportionately represented among projects with poor construction workmanship. Over the past six years, these smaller condominiums accounted for more than 58 per cent of private residential projects that received low band ratings under the Construction Quality Assessment System (Conquas). Of 167 projects assessed, 48 were placed in the lowest tiers (bands 4 to 6), with 28 of these identified as boutique developments.
Understanding the Conquas System and Band Ratings

The Construction Quality Assessment System (Conquas) is a comprehensive evaluation tool used in Singapore to assess the workmanship and identify major defects in private residential projects. This system measures various aspects of construction quality, including issues such as water seepage, cracked tiles, and broken fittings. Conquas assigns a band rating from 1 to 6 to each project, with band 1 representing the highest quality and band 6 the lowest. Developers and builders are also assigned their own band ratings based on the performance of their projects. For instance, fewer than one in every 1,000 units constructed by a band 1 developer reported major defects post-Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP), a stark contrast to the 80 in every 1,000 units reported for band 6 developers.
Industry Practices and Construction Methodologies

Industry experts suggest that the higher propensity for defects in smaller projects stems from their reliance on traditional onsite construction methods. These methods, which include formwork, concrete pouring, and onsite installation, are inherently more susceptible to variability in workmanship and external factors like weather conditions. In contrast, larger developments frequently leverage prefabricated systems. These components are manufactured under controlled factory conditions, which generally leads to more consistent quality and a reduced risk of defects. The use of prefabricated systems and factory production environments allows for greater precision and efficiency, mitigating many of the variables encountered in open-site construction.
The Role of Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) and Developer Accountability

The Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) signifies that a building is ready for occupation, and it is after this stage that homeowners typically report any significant defects. BCA's project assessments, including validated feedback from homeowners post-TOP, contribute to the final Conquas banding. To address recurring issues with quality, Singapore has implemented a Land Sales Disqualification Framework. Under this framework, developers whose projects exhibit severe non-compliances affecting safety, or who have consecutive projects with major defects, can be barred from participating in land sales for up to five years. This measure aims to deter poor developer behaviour and enhance protection for homebuyers by holding developers more accountable for the quality of their construction.

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Why are small condo projects in Singapore more prone to defects?

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