Condo Renovation Guidelines in Singapore

A well-considered condo renovation can do more than elevate your interiors — it can redefine the way you live. Whether you’re welcoming a new baby, accommodating ageing parents, or simply craving a more refined flow and smarter storage, a fresh design can transform even the most compact unit into a sanctuary of form and function.

However, before you contact an interior designer or contractor, you need to know the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) guidelines for renovating strata-titled residential property. With renovations, you need to know what you are allowed to do and how to secure planning permission, if necessary.

• 5 Questions You Need to Ask Before Renovating Your Condo
  • 1. Do you need to get planning permission for condo renovations?
  • 2. How do I apply for a planning permission?
  • 3. Can you convert a balcony into a room or indoor space?
  • 4. Can you add a loft inside a condominium or flat?
  • 5. Can you build a cover over a Personal Enclosed Space (PES)?
• Ready to Begin Your Condo Renovation? Start with the Right Foundation

5 Questions You Need to Ask Before Renovating Your Condo

1. Do you need to get planning permission for condo renovations?

If the renovation you plan to do in your condo or flat will not increase its Gross Floor Area (GFA), you do not need planning permission. But if the work will increase the GFA, you will need to secure planning permission.

2. How do I apply for a planning permission?

To apply for the planning permission, download the authorisation letter from URA. Then, have your Management Corporation (MC) Secretary or Chairperson sign the letter. Submit this letter and the work proposal with your application to the URA.

3. Can you convert a balcony into a room or indoor space?

By design, your balcony is a semi-outdoor space, so you shouldn’t convert it into an indoor space by closing it off using full-height solid enclosures such as sliding window panes or “smart windows.”

URA allows fully retractable balcony screens that allow for natural ventilation. This addresses safety and sun protection concerns that come with having open balconies.

Check with your Management Committee Strata Title (MCST) or developer for the approved balcony screen design, if any. The URA has also provided balcony enclosure guidelines that you can refer to before making any renovations on your balcony.

4. Can you add a loft inside a condominium or flat?

Admit it; if you have a flat or condo with a high ceiling, you’ve probably thought of building a loft to create more space in the unit. The good news is, URA allows a loft as long as it is built like a furniture deck where you can rest.

You can only install one such loft per unit. It should be a lightweight furniture fixture, not part of the structural element of the building. Note that the total area should not exceed 5sqm, with headroom that’s no higher than the area below it.

5. Can you build a cover over a Personal Enclosed Space (PES)?

You don’t need planning permission if you plan to build a cover over your PES, provided it does not extend more than two metres from the external wall of the unit.

The URA will still check if the cover to be built adheres to the prevailing development control guidelines. Also, you must comply with the requirements and by-laws of the estate’s MCST.

Now that you have the information you need, it’s time to get to work towards making your flat or condo a better place to live in.

Ready to Begin Your Condo Renovation? Start with the Right Foundation

A beautifully designed home begins with more than mood boards and inspiration — it starts with understanding what’s actually allowed. Whether you’re adding a loft, reimagining your balcony, or simply upgrading your space to suit a new life chapter, being well-versed in URA guidelines ensures your renovation journey is smooth from the very first step.

At Ohmyhome, we don’t just renovate. We guide, advise, and execute with precision. Let us help you transform your home into a space that’s not only beautiful, but also fully compliant with Singapore’s condo renovation regulations. Your dream home is closer than you think.

Let DreamR help you achieve the finest condo renovation.