Authorities give owners time to comply following inspections.
SINGAPORE – Owners of eight penthouse units in Haig Avenue have been instructed to regularize or remove unauthorized rooftop structures after inspections confirmed no structural safety risks. The developments involved are Rose Maison and EiS Residences, where additions such as glass-enclosed spaces and roof extensions were flagged.
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and Building and Construction Authority (BCA) are overseeing the case. In a joint statement, they emphasized that property owners must ensure compliance with planning and design standards. This may involve professional engineering assessments, fees for increased gross floor area, or other approvals.
Rising Cases of Unapproved Modifications
The BCA has reported a steady increase in unauthorized building modifications, handling an average of 120 cases annually between 2020 and 2023, compared to 57 cases per year from 2016 to 2018.
These cases often include unauthorized rooftop shelters and covers, which generally do not affect structural integrity. In response, the BCA is reviewing the types of building works that can proceed without prior approval.
Legal and Regulatory Implications
The issue has broader implications for strata developments. Legal action, like the case of East Coast Road homeowner Ng Jun Quan, highlights challenges in enforcing regulations. Mr. Ng faced a court order to remove a 676 sq ft mezzanine floor that violated building laws.
Strata management lawyer Daniel Chen notes that significant alterations, such as those increasing gross floor area, require a 90% approval resolution from subsidiary proprietors at a general meeting, in addition to regulatory approvals.
Penalties for Violations
Under Singapore’s Planning Act, unauthorized works can result in fines up to $200,000. The Building Control Act imposes penalties of up to $200,000, two years in jail, or both for starting construction without proper permits.
Both URA and BCA reiterated that investigations are based on public feedback or routine checks. Owners of unauthorized structures, even if permitted to keep them, may face penalties or charges reflecting the increased property value.
