How to Work with a BCA-Licensed Singapore GC (2026)
Singapore's Building and Construction Authority (BCA) regulates every contractor through the Contractors Registration System. These six steps verify BCA registration and navigate the HDB vs private-property permit divide that defines every Singapore renovation.
Step 1: Look up the GC in BCA CRS (Contractors Registration System)
Every Singapore GC registered with BCA is listed in the CRS at bca.gov.sg. Search by company name or UEN (Unique Entity Number). Confirm the registration workhead matches your project scope — CW01 (General Building) is typical for renovations. Non-CRS contractors cannot legally work on public-sector or most private projects.
Step 2: Determine the property type: HDB vs private condominium vs landed
HDB (public housing, 78% of Singaporeans) requires HDB Renovation Permit for most work — structural, electrical, plumbing changes all need permits. Private condominiums require MCST (Management Corporation) approval plus BCA structural approval if load-bearing changes. Landed private property goes through BCA direct with planning permission for envelope changes.
Step 3: Use an HDB-registered Renovation Contractor for HDB units
HDB maintains a separate list of approved Renovation Contractors (different from BCA CRS). Only HDB-registered contractors can execute HDB renovation permits. A BCA-registered contractor without HDB registration cannot legally do HDB interior work. Verify at HDB InfoWEB.
Step 4: Confirm worker-safety compliance per MOM (Ministry of Manpower)
MOM requires all renovation workers to hold relevant Workplace Safety and Health (WSH) certifications. Scaffold workers need Supervisor of Scaffold Erection certification; confined-space workers need CSO certification. The GC is responsible but homeowners can request documentation. Non-compliant worksites can be shut down immediately by MOM inspectors.
Step 5: Verify CPF (Central Provident Fund) contributions for all Singaporean/PR workers
All Singapore citizen and PR workers must receive CPF contributions from the contractor. Foreign workers receive employer's foreign-worker levy instead. Workers without CPF (or without work permits) are illegally engaged. Ask the contractor to show CPF submission confirmations.
Step 6: Require a Certificate of Supervision or Statutory Completion (STC)
Structural works require a Qualified Person (QP — a registered PE or architect) to supervise and issue a Certificate of Supervision. Final sign-off for occupancy requires a Statutory Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) or Certificate of Statutory Completion (CSC) from BCA. Request these documents before releasing final payment.
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