Key collection day is one of the most exciting moments — but it’s also one of the most important to get right.
Most people handle the “exciting” part well.
The “important” part? That’s where things usually go wrong.
The Common Mistake
Typical scenario:
- 10 AM → Collect keys
- 1 PM → Contractor arrives
In between:
- Take photos
- Celebrate
- Walk around imagining furniture
Three weeks later:
- Renovation hasn’t started
- Contractor is waiting
- Defects not reported
- Measurements inaccurate
What You Should Do Instead
Hour 1 — Document Every Defect
HDB will fix defects — but only if you report them within the timeline.
Go room by room:
- Start from the main door
- Move clockwise
Check:
- Cracks
- Scratches
- Doors not closing properly
- Window sealing issues
- Hollow tiles
Test everything:
- Taps
- Toilets (flush twice)
- Power points
💡 Tip:
Most units have 20–40 defects
If you find <10 → you’re likely missing things
Hour 2 — Measure Everything
Floor plans are not perfectly accurate.
Common differences:
- Wall lengths: off by 5–30 cm
- Ceiling height varies
- Toilet rough-in not shown
👉 Use a laser measure (cheap & accurate)
Process:
- Measure each wall
- Write directly on wall (pencil)
- Take photos
This step is often skipped — but critical.
Hour 3 — Create Documentation Archive
Do a full video walkthrough:
- Narrate condition of each room
Then:
- Upload all photos/videos to Google Drive
- Name it: "BTO Original Condition [Date]"
Send to contractor before they arrive.
Why Timing Matters
Defect reporting deadlines are strict:
- Ceiling leaks → within 1 week
- Wall cracks → within 1 month
Miss it → you pay yourself
Documentation timing can decide disputes.
Before Contractor Arrives
Don’t call them immediately after key collection.
Instead:
- Take ~3 hours first
- Send:
- Measurements
- Defect photos
Result:
- More accurate quote
- Faster renovation start
The Bottom Line
Key collection day is a working day first, celebration second.
If you:
- Document properly
- Measure accurately
👉 Your renovation will be:
- Faster
- Smoother
- Cheaper
Skip this → you’ll fix problems that weren’t yours.
