Can I hack into my party wall to support a new beam?
The BCA and URA guide for landed estates says there should generally be no hacking of an existing party wall to create recesses for new walls, columns or beams, and that the contractor should not use the party wall as formwork or support. A Professional Engineer should design an independent structure and new foundations. Transferring additional load onto existing common foundations is strongly discouraged.
From the RRD Field Guide, checked against the sources cited in Landed House A&A in Singapore: Reconstruction vs A&A, Attics, Extensions and Approvals. General information, not advice for your project.
The fuller picture
In Singapore, landed house works stay A&A only within URA's limits: added floor area up to 50% of the existing approved GFA, and no more than 50% of external walls or structural floor area replaced. Anything larger is lodged as reconstruction or new erection. Extensions, attics and basements need URA planning permission and, where structural, BCA plans and a permit through a Qualified Person.
More questions on this topic
- What is the difference between A&A and reconstruction for a landed house?
- Do I need URA approval to add an attic to my terrace house?
- Which landed house works need no BCA plan submission?
- Does my renovated house need SCDF fire safety approval?
- What are the rules for Good Class Bungalow Areas?
- Do I need to tell my neighbours before renovating?
- How long does a landed house A&A approval take?