BTO Renovations in Singapore: Home Insurance & Coverage
Singapore's Build-To-Order (BTO) housing scheme has been a popular choice for many young couples and families looking to own their first home. With the increasing demand for BTO flats, the need for home renovation services and insurance coverage for such renovations has also risen. If you are one of the lucky ones who have secured a BTO flat, here's what you can expect during the home renovation process in Singapore.
5 Simple Steps To Pick Suitable Home Insurance With Renovation Coverage
Decide on the coverage type
Have adequate sum insured
Make sure that the sum insured is high enough to cover the cost of rebuilding your home and repairing or replacing your renovations in the event of a covered loss. Renovations may also increase the value of your home.
This means that you may need to increase the sum insured on your home insurance policy to cover the cost of rebuilding your home and repairing or replacing your renovations in the event of a covered loss. An increase in the sum insured can also lead to an increase in your premium.
Pick a suitable excess
Compare the prices
Check the exclusions
Doing this can help you to understand what is not covered by your policy. This is important because if you make a claim for a covered loss, your insurance company may deny your claim if the loss is excluded from your policy such as wear and tear, maintenance issues and certain natural disasters.
If you are unsure of the exclusions, you can also consult your preferred home insurance agent or online portal customer service staff as they can help you to make an informed decision about which home insurance plan is right for you.
Best BTO Home Insurance In Singapore
| Best for | Home insurance plan | Estimated annual premium rate (as of 12 October 2023) |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Insurance | FWD Home Insurance - HDB 3 Room, 4 Room and 5 Room plans | From $61 |
| Renovations | Hong Leong Home Protect360 Gold | From $444 |
| Zero excess (for claims due to burst pipes or fire) | FWD Home Insurance - HDB 3 Room, 4 Room and 5 Room plans | From $61 |
| Fuss-free coverage | Singlife Home Lite and Standard plans | From $71 |
| Personal liability coverage | MSIG Enhanced HomePlus plans | From $158 |
| Reimbursement of home cleaning expenses due to infectious disease outbreak | Sompo HomeBliss insurance plans | From $107 |
| Emergency home assistance services and cash allowance | Tiq Home Insurance plans | From $81 |
Other Factors To Consider During BTO Home Renovations
Design consultation
The first step in any home renovation process is a design consultation with your chosen interior designer. Decide on the theme and layout, and let the interior designer know how many people will be living in the home, what your daily routines are like, your favourite activities at home, etc.
Space planning
When planning your renovation, it is important to consider the layout of your space and how you want to use it. Make sure to measure your space carefully and create a floor plan that includes zone divisions, furniture layout, etc. This will help you to visualize the new layout and make sure that everything fits.
HDB renovation guidelines
HDB has a number of renovation guidelines for BTO flats that you must follow when renovating your home. Be sure to familiarise yourself with these guidelines before you start planning your renovation.
Permits
You may need to obtain a permit from HDB for certain types of renovations. Be sure to check with HDB before you start any work.
Budget
It is important to set a realistic budget for your renovation and stick to it. Be sure to factor in the cost of materials, labor, and permits.
Looking for a renovation loan? Compare the best rates here in Moneysmart.
Frequently Asked Questions About BTO Renovations
Why should I get home insurance for my BTO?
- Yes, you should get home insurance for your BTO flat, although it is not mandatory by law unlike fire insurance for all BTO and resale HDB flats. It is highly encouraged to get home insurance as it provides your home with certain levels of protection against fire/water damage, vandalism and related risks, coverage for loss/damage or theft of personal belongings, personal liability coverage, temporary housing benefit, and for the fulfilment of certain mortgage requirements.
Is insurance coverage for my BTO renovation necessary?
- Yes and no. It’ll be wise to get one if you’re planning to do renovations for your HDB flat so as to have protection against any mishaps involving contractors, and any damage to walls, floors, or fixtures.
What is contractor’s insurance coverage in a home insurance plan?
- It is a form of protection for you when you hire a contractor or renovation professional, as it will ensure they have liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. This can protect you from financial liability in case of accidents or injuries during the renovation process.