How long do approvals for a typical office fit-out take?
There is no single answer because each agency runs its own clock. Published BCA service standards are 7 working days for a complete structural plan without an Accredited Checker and 7 working days for the structural works permit; URA's change-of-use decisions generally take 10 working days; SCDF responds to TFP and FSC applications within 3 working days. Landlord reviews, resubmissions, design changes and the time taken to prepare a complete submission usually dominate, so build float into the programme.
From the RRD Field Guide, checked against the sources cited in A&A and Fit-Out Approvals in Singapore: Who Approves What, and When. General information, not advice for your project.
The fuller picture
Most Singapore fit-outs and A&A works need several separate clearances: BCA for structural and non-exempt building works, SCDF for anything touching fire safety (plan approval, or a $90 minor A&A lodgement for small works), URA for change of use or external changes, the landlord, JTC or MCST, plus licensed electrical workers, licensed plumbers and gas workers for services. A Qualified Person coordinates the statutory submissions.
More questions on this topic
- Do I need BCA approval to put up office partitions?
- What is the SCDF minor A&A lodgement, and when can I use it?
- My new tenant wants to turn an office into a tuition centre. Who needs to approve?
- Can my contractor submit the plans instead of a QP?
- Are approvals needed for electrical and plumbing changes in a fit-out?
- What happens if works start before approval?
- Does a condo owner need MCST approval for internal renovations?