What is the penalty if my window falls?
Since 1 October 2025, section 25H of the Building Control Act makes it an offence for the person responsible for an exterior feature, which includes a window, to fail to keep it securely fixed. The maximum is a fine of S$20,000, 12 months' jail, or both. If the window has fallen and there is deterioration not caused by accident or acts of nature, the law presumes the owner failed in this duty unless the owner proves otherwise. BCA's media releases before that change quoted S$10,000 and one year.
From the RRD Field Guide, checked against the sources cited in Window Safety in Singapore: Owner Duties, Inspections, Rivets and Falling-Window Penalties. General information, not advice for your project.
The fuller picture
In Singapore the owner of a flat is legally responsible for keeping its windows securely fixed. BCA advises checking windows at least once every six months, and casement windows must use type 304 stainless steel rivets, not aluminium. Since 1 October 2025, a window that falls through poor maintenance can lead to a fine of up to S$20,000, 12 months' jail, or both.
More questions on this topic
- Who is responsible if a window falls from my condo unit?
- How often should I check my windows?
- Do I have to replace aluminium rivets in my casement windows?
- What is an Approved Window Contractor?
- Can I just ask a handyman to fix a loose window?
- Do landed houses fall under these window rules?
- Must a fallen window be reported to BCA?