COMPLETION OF BUILDING WORKS (Legislation)

COMPLETION OF BUILDING WORKS

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(Legislation): **

17.

Mdm Cynthia Phua asked the Minister for National Development if he will (a) introduce legislation to govern the completion of building works within a reasonable time to ensure that minimum nuisance is caused to the neighbouring units; (b) review the definition of 'completion' to ensure that the building is fit for occupation with the issuance of the temporary occupation permit from the Commissioner of Building Control.

Mr Mah Bow Tan: The current legislative framework already has provisions to require projects to be completed within a reasonable time. In addition, provisions are also in place to ensure that uncompleted works do not pose a nuisance to others in the neighbourhood.

In issuing the Written Permission (WP), URA usually grants a 2-year period for completion of work, after which the WP will lapse. As the Building Plan Approval is tied to the WP, it will lapse with the WP. If the development is not completed within this time, an application has to be made to extend the validity of the WP.

There is also legislation to deal with the potential problems that may arise from uncompleted buildings. The Building Maintenance and Strata Management Act empowers the Commissioner of Buildings to order the developer or owner to repair and upkeep their uncompleted buildings to make sure that they are properly maintained. The Control of Vector and Pesticides Act also prohibits building owners from creating conditions that are favourable to the breeding of vectors such as mosquitoes and vermin, and, where necessary, requires them to undertake vector control measures.

Incidents of uncompleted buildings are few and isolated. The current legislative provisions are adequate to govern the completion of building works within a reasonable time, and to address potential environmental or safety concerns caused by uncompleted buildings.

Mdm Phua also asked whether there will be a review of the definition of 'completion' to ensure that the building is fit for occupation with the issuance of temporary occupation permit from the Commissioner of Building Control. I would like to clarify that the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) issues Temporary Occupation Permit only when a building is deemed structurally safe and suitable for occupation or use. Without TOP, the building cannot be occupied or used.

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