Windows

Windows in your flat are subject to constant use, as well as exposure to rain and wind. You will need to maintain them to comply with the Building and Construction Authority's (BCA) Building Control Regulations as they deteriorate over time due to wear and tear. If not, windows can fall and cause serious injury to passers-by.

Check your windows once every 6 months to ensure that your windows are working smoothly, and there are no loose or worn-out parts. If you find that your windows are in danger of falling, please take precautionary measures to secure them, and engage a BCA-approved window contractor listed with HDB to replace/ repair the windows

If a window falls due to lack of maintenance, home owners can face a fine not exceeding $20,000 and/ or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months or both.

Window types and installation requirements

Find out the regulations, exemptions and penalties for non-compliance regarding window design and installation.

There are generally 3 types of windows:

Casement window:

Window that opens on hinges, pivots, or friction stays. It can be made from aluminium, mild steel or wood.

casement window 1

maintenance guide windows mild steel casement windows

maintenance guide windows timber windows 2

Sliding window:

A window that slides horizontally along the bottom member of an aluminium frame.

  Sliding_window

Louvred window:

A window with glass panes which can be opened using a lever at the pivot joint. These could be adjustable or fixed.

  louvred window 2

All window checks, repairs, retrofitting, installations, and replacements must comply with the objectives and performance requirements set out in BCA's Building Control Regulations. Watch this video on window legislation to learn more.

You will need to retrofit your casement windows if they do not comply with retrofitting requirements. Penalties may be imposed for non-compliance and/ or falling windows.

If you fail to retrofit your windows with stainless steel rivets, you may face a fine not exceeding $5,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or both.

Exemptions

Windows in flats on the lowest level are exempted from BCA's Building Control Regulations, as there is no danger of objects falling from height.

What to look out for when checking your windows

Ensure your windows are in good condition. Know what to check for, and what you can do to solve common window problems.

Ensure your windows are working smoothly and safe for everyone by following three steps: check, clean, and change.

 

Watch this video to learn more about maintenance checks:

 

 

Check out the common problems and solutions for each window type:

Casement window

casement window 1

casement window 2

maintenance guide windows timber windows 2

maintenance guide windows timber windows 1

 Sliding window

 sliding window 1

sliding window 2

Sliding_window

 Louvred window

 

 louvred window 1

louvred window 2

Appoint only BCA-approved window contractor listed with HDB

Window works may only be performed by BCA-approved window contractors listed with HDB, who must submit a report to BCA upon the completion of works.

Follow these steps when appointing a BCA-approved window contractor listed with HDB:

1 Appoint a BCA-approved window contractor listed with HDB. Alternatively, visit your nearest HDB Branch to enquire about contractors you can engage.
2 Ensure your window contractor submits the window permit application to HDB for the window works in your flat. You can log in to MyHDB Page to check the application status.
3 Check that your window is properly installed/ repaired. If you discover any loose/ missing parts, contact your contractor immediately for rectification.

Please note that your window contractor is responsible for the proper installation/ repair of the window(s). If your contractor refuses to rectify the works, please inform the BCA so that appropriate action can be taken.
4

Within 14 days upon completion of works, your appointed window contractor will need to submit the relevant window report(s) to the BCA.

The window report(s) form part of the retrofitting process and requirements. Contractors should provide you the report(s) at no extra charge.
5  You are advised to keep a copy of the window report(s) for your own record.

Engaging a window contractor is a private arrangement between you and the contractor. To avoid problems or complaints related to overcharging or unnecessary work being carried out, you may wish to take note of the following before proceeding with any repairs/ maintenance:

  • Consult your contractor on:
    • The type and extent of work necessary
    • All chargeable costs
  • Compare quotes from more than one contractor and negotiate costs
  • Study the terms and conditions of engagement