Is Your Building Due for a Periodic Structural Inspection? A Free Comprehensive Guide for Singapore Owners

Introduction

In a densely built-up city like Singapore, where buildings stand tall and serve millions daily, ensuring structural safety is not just good practice—it’s the law. The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) has implemented a mandatory Periodic Structural Inspection (PSI) program that requires older buildings to undergo routine inspections to assess their structural soundness.

Whether you’re a building manager, homeowner, or part of a commercial property management team, understanding the PSI compliance Singapore framework is crucial to avoid legal issues and maintain the long-term value and safety of your property.

This guide will walk you through the entire structural inspection process in Singapore—what it is, when it applies, who’s responsible, and how to stay compliant with BCA PSI requirements.

What Is a Periodic Structural Inspection (PSI)?

A Periodic Structural Inspection (PSI) is a mandatory assessment that evaluates the condition of key structural elements in a building, including columns, beams, slabs, foundations, and retaining walls. The aim is to ensure that these components remain in a safe and stable condition over time.

In Singapore’s hot and humid climate, structural components are exposed to environmental wear and tear. Without timely inspections, small defects can escalate into serious risks that threaten both human life and property integrity.

When Is a PSI Required in Singapore?

As per the BCA building inspection Singapore guidelines, PSI becomes mandatory for:

• All buildings over 13 meters in height
• Once the building reaches 20 years from the issuance of its Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP)

From that point forward, the building must undergo a PSI every 10 years.

Example:

If your building received its TOP in 2005, the first Periodic Structural Inspection would be due in 2025, and the next in 2035.

While the BCA may issue a PSI inspection notice, building owners are expected to proactively track and schedule inspections ahead of the deadline.

Who Is Responsible for PSI Compliance?

The legal duty to arrange and complete a Periodic Structural Inspection lies with the:

• Building owner
• MCST (Management Corporation Strata Title), for condominiums
• Commercial property management companies

This applies to various property types, including:

• 🏢 Office towers and commercial complexes
• 🏘️ Residential condominiums
• 🏭 Industrial buildings
• 🏬 Mixed-use developments

Failure to comply with PSI requirements can result in enforcement action, financial penalties, or even restrictions on building usage—especially if structural risks are later identified.

Who Can Conduct a Periodic Structural Inspection?

Only a Professional Engineer (PE) who is registered with the Professional Engineers Board (PEB) in the discipline of civil or structural engineering can legally carry out a PSI in Singapore.

The PE is responsible for:

• Conducting the inspection
• Identifying defects or signs of distress
• Recommending remedial actions
• Submitting a detailed inspection report to BCA

The integrity and accuracy of the PSI process depend heavily on the PE’s qualifications and experience. Hiring a certified and experienced professional is key to ensuring both legal compliance and structural safety.

What Does a Structural Inspection Include?

A comprehensive PSI involves both visual assessments and, if required, non-destructive testing methods to evaluate the health of the structure. Here’s what the process typically covers:

Inspection Checklist:

• Visual inspection of structural elements like columns, slabs, beams, and foundations
• Identification of:
  • Cracks
  • Concrete spalling
  • Reinforcement corrosion
  • Foundation settlement
• Evaluation of load-bearing capacity
• Non-destructive tests such as:
  • Ultrasonic pulse velocity tests
  • Rebound hammer tests
• Compilation of a professional engineering report with:
  • Defect mapping
  • Risk severity classification
  • Repair recommendations
  • Compliance statement

This report is submitted to BCA as part of the compliance process.

How to Prepare for a PSI

Proactive preparation makes the inspection process faster, safer, and more cost-effective. Here’s how to get ready:

PSI Preparation Checklist:

1. Check building records for the TOP date and construction documents.
2. Budget for inspection and potential repairs.
3. Engage a registered PE early, especially if your building is nearing the 20-year mark.
4. Notify residents or tenants about inspection schedules (especially if access is required).
5. Organize access equipment, such as gondolas or ladders, if necessary.
6. Document past repairs or known issues so the PE has context.

Being well-prepared allows for a smoother inspection and reduces the chance of surprises during the compliance review.

Why Periodic Structural Inspections Matter

While PSI is a legal obligation, its real value lies in preventing costly or dangerous structural failures. Here’s why every property owner should treat it seriously:

Benefits of Regular Structural Inspections:

• Detects early signs of wear, corrosion, or instability
• Protects lives and property from collapse or injury
• Preserves the long-term value of your building asset
• Reduces expensive emergency repairs in the future
• Ensures smooth regulatory approvals and insurance claims
• Demonstrates responsible ownership, enhancing your reputation

Many defects—like corrosion of steel reinforcement—are not visible to the untrained eye until failure occurs. Regular PSIs give owners a reliable roadmap for building maintenance in Singapore.

Need Help with PSI Compliance in Singapore?

At Ezzogenics, we provide end-to-end support for Periodic Structural Inspection Singapore services. Our team of PE-registered engineers conducts professional, compliant, and timely inspections for buildings across all property sectors.

Why Choose Ezzogenics?

• Certified Professional Engineers (PEB-registered)
• Advanced inspection techniques (visual + non-destructive)
• Full BCA documentation support
• 100% PSI compliance, Singapore guaranteed
• Fast reporting and transparent pricing

Whether you’re preparing for your building’s first PSI or need urgent compliance support after receiving a BCA inspection notice, we’ve got you covered.

Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

If your building is approaching or has already crossed the 20-year mark since receiving its TOP, it’s your responsibility to schedule and complete a Periodic Structural Inspection in Singapore. Delaying inspections can lead to non-compliance penalties or, worse, structural issues that risk lives.

By following the BCA PSI requirements, hiring the right professionals, and keeping up with building inspection Singapore timelines, you’ll ensure both legal safety and peace of mind.

Let Ezzogenics help you take the guesswork out of compliance—so you can focus on managing your property, not worrying about its safety.

Contact us to get a free quotation today.