Building permits are crucial for ensuring that construction projects adhere to safety standards and local regulations. For homeowners looking to build their dream house in Singapore, obtaining a building permit is a necessary step. However, the cost of a building permit can vary greatly depending on several factors.
To help you better understand these costs, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 factors that affect the cost of a building permit for a house in Singapore. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned real estate investor, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the factors that influence building permit costs and help you make informed decisions about your construction project.
Factor 1: Type of Construction
The type of construction plays a significant role in determining the cost of a building permit for a house in Singapore. For example, building permits for landed properties tend to be more expensive than those for high-rise apartments due to the complexity and size of the construction. Similarly, renovations or additions to existing buildings may require additional permits, further increasing the total permit cost.
Here are some examples of different types of construction in Singapore and their permit costs:
| Type of Construction | Permit Cost Range |
| Landed properties | $500 – $10,000+ |
| High-rise apartments | $150 – $1,500 |
| Renovations or additions | $100 – $10,000+ |
Note: The permit cost ranges provided are based on information from the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore and are subject to change based on specific factors unique to each construction project.
Factor 2: Size of the House
The size of the house is another key factor that affects the cost of a building permit in Singapore. Generally, the larger the house, the higher the permit cost. This is because larger houses typically require more materials, labor, and time to build, which can increase the complexity and cost of the permit application process.
Here are some examples of how the permit costs increase with the size of the house:
| House Size | Permit Cost Range |
| Small (1-2 rooms) | $150 – $500 |
| Medium (3-4 rooms) | $500 – $1,500 |
| Large (5-6 rooms) | $1,500 or more |
Please note that the permit cost ranges are only approximations and can vary widely depending on the unique characteristics of each house, including its location, design, construction materials, and other factors. The ranges provided here are based on information provided by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore, and are intended to give homeowners a rough idea of what to expect when budgeting for their building permit costs.
Factor 3: Location of the House
The location of the house is a crucial factor that influences the cost of a building permit in Singapore. The permit costs can vary depending on the area of Singapore where the house is located. For instance, the permit costs in prime locations like the city center are usually higher than in less developed or suburban areas.
Here are some examples of how the permit costs differ between locations in Singapore:
- City center: The permit costs for a house in the central area of Singapore, such as Orchard Road or Marina Bay, are typically higher than in other locations. A building permit for a house in these areas can range from $5,000 to $10,000 or more.
- Suburbs: The permit costs for a house in suburban areas, such as Woodlands or Tampines, are generally lower than in the city center. The cost of a building permit for a house in these areas can range from $1,500 to $5,000.
These permit cost ranges are based on information provided by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore. It’s worth noting that permit costs can vary based on other factors such as accessibility, infrastructure, and development plans in the location.
Factor 4: Complexity of the House Design
The complexity of the house design is another significant factor that influences the cost of a building permit in Singapore. The permit costs can increase with the complexity of the design, as more complex designs require more detailed plans and drawings, as well as additional reviews and approvals by building authorities.
Here are some examples of how the permit costs increase with the complexity of the house design:
| House Design Complexity | Permit Cost Range |
| Simple | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Moderate | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Complex | $10,000 or more |
Please note that the permit cost ranges in the comparison table are only approximations and can vary widely depending on various factors, as mentioned earlier. Nonetheless, understanding how the complexity of the house design affects building permit costs can help homeowners better plan and budget for their construction projects, and work with architects and contractors to optimize their designs while minimizing permit costs.
Factor 5: Timeframe of the Construction
The timeframe of the construction is another key factor that affects the cost of a building permit in Singapore. The longer the construction timeframe, the higher the permit costs can be, as the building authorities may need to conduct additional inspections and reviews to ensure that the construction is progressing safely and in compliance with the approved plans.
Here are some examples of how the permit costs can increase with longer construction timeframes:
- Standard timeframe: If a construction project is expected to be completed within the standard timeframe of 12 months, the permit cost will generally be lower. The permit cost for a standard timeframe can range from $1,500 to $3,000.
- Extended timeframe: If a construction project takes longer than the standard timeframe, the permit cost will generally be higher. The permit cost for an extended timeframe can range from $3,000 to $6,000 or more.
These permit cost ranges are based on information provided by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore. It’s worth noting that permit costs can also be affected by other factors such as the size and complexity of the construction project.
In conclusion
Several factors can affect the cost of a building permit for a house in Singapore. These include the type of construction, size of the house, location of the house, complexity of the design, and timeframe of the construction. Understanding these factors and how they can impact permit costs is important for homeowners who are planning to build or renovate their homes.
By taking these factors into consideration and planning their construction projects accordingly, homeowners may be able to minimize their permit costs and stay within their budget. Overall, being aware of the factors that affect building permit costs can help homeowners make more informed decisions and avoid any unnecessary expenses during their construction projects.
Renovate your house with Interior Empire!
Finding it hard to visualize your unique interior design ideas? Look no further than Interior Empire. As one of the best interior design firms in Singapore, we strive to serve the most innovative ways and new design possibilities in your interior design. Why you should choose as your interior designer:
- We are specialized in creating the highest standards of interior design results out of the most unique and out-of-the-box ideas
- Creating one of a kind design based on our client taste through the help of our certified and experienced designers
- We provide space planning and allocation using the latest 3D visualization technology
- We are experienced in renovating residential and commercial space
- The best quality control and project management to ensure the work gets done on time
Wait no more! Try our different renovation packages based on your different needs. Contact us here or visit our showroom at T-SPACE #08-05, 1 Tampines North | Drive 1 Singapore, Singapore 528559.