A practical checklist for Singapore homeowners on how to verify, compare, and choose a reputable BCA-licensed contractor for your landed home project.
Why Choosing the Right Contractor Matters
Building or renovating a landed home is one of the largest financial decisions many Singaporean families make. Choosing the wrong contractor — whether unlicensed, underinsured, or inexperienced — can lead to construction defects, cost overruns, permit issues, and lengthy disputes.
This guide provides a practical step-by-step framework for selecting a trustworthy BCA-licensed contractor in Singapore.
Step 1: Verify BCA Licence Status
Under Singapore's Building Control Act, contractors carrying out structural building works must hold a valid BCA Builder's Licence (typically GB1 or GB2). It is also advantageous to engage contractors with registered workheads such as CW01 (General Building), as these qualifications allow them to undertake a wider range of projects.
How to Verify
- Visit the BCA website and check the Register of Licensed Builders
- Confirm that the licence is active and not expired or suspended
- Ensure the licence grade is suitable for your project scope and value
Never engage an unlicensed contractor for structural works.
Step 2: Review Their Project Portfolio
A reputable contractor should have a clear portfolio of completed projects, ideally with project photos and details. When reviewing their portfolio:
- Look for projects similar to yours (e.g. inter-terrace, semi-detached, bungalow)
- Check for completed projects in Singapore
- Ask whether site visits to completed projects can be arranged
Ming Sia Construction maintains a portfolio of completed landed home projects in Singapore. We also maintain close relationships with many of our homeowners and may arrange visits to selected completed homes upon request.
Step 3: Verify Insurance Coverage
The contractor should have the following insurance coverage:
- Public Liability Insurance — covers third-party property damage or injury during construction
- Work Injury Compensation Insurance — covers injuries sustained by workers on-site
Always ensure the policies are current and that the coverage is adequate for your project.
Step 4: Obtain at Least 3 Quotations
A proper quotation should clearly include:
- Detailed scope of works
- Cost breakdown by trade (structural, M&E, finishes, etc.)
- Project timeline and contract period
- Payment schedule and milestones
- Defects liability period
Step 5: Review the Contract Carefully
Before signing, ensure the contract clearly states:
- Scope of works and specifications
- Contract sum and payment schedule
- Project commencement and completion dates
- Variation order procedures
- Defects liability period (typically 12 months for landed homes)
- Termination and dispute resolution clauses
- Insurance responsibilities
Why Choose Ming Sia Construction?
Ming Sia Construction Pte Ltd is a BCA-licensed contractor with over 15 years of experience in landed home construction across Singapore. We provide:
- End-to-end project management from permit submission to handover
- A 12-month defects liability period for landed home rebuild / A&A projects
- A track record of over 200 completed projects
- Transparent communication on costs and timelines
Contact us today to discuss your project, or browse our portfolio to view our completed works.
Ready to start your project?
Speak to our team for a free consultation on your Singapore construction or A&A project.