What to Expect During a Comprehensive Facade Inspection

Maintaining building facades is essential for safety, structural integrity, and overall appearance. Property owners and managers have a responsibility to ensure that buildings remain secure and compliant with local regulations. Facade inspection is a crucial service that identifies issues before they escalate, helps maintain compliance with Singapore’s Building Control Act, and extends the life of a building. Proof-Tech Waterproofing & Maintenance Pte Ltd provides expert facade inspection services, combining experience, professional expertise, and advanced techniques to ensure buildings remain safe, functional, and visually appealing.

What is Facade Inspection?

Facade inspection involves a thorough assessment of a building’s exterior to identify structural and cosmetic defects. Facades are constantly exposed to wind, rain, sunlight, and temperature fluctuations, which over time can cause wear, cracks, water leakage, corrosion, and other deterioration. Regular facade inspection ensures these issues are detected early and addressed effectively.

Periodic assessments are especially important for buildings over 20 years old, as mandated by the Periodic Facade Inspection (PFI) regime in Singapore. Buildings must undergo inspection every seven years, except for certain residential and temporary structures and buildings below 13 metres in height. A comprehensive facade inspection evaluates concrete, cladding, waterproofing, paintwork, and metal elements to identify areas that require maintenance or repair.

Why Facade Inspection Matters

Safety is the top priority when managing any building. Facade inspection protects occupants and the public by identifying hazards such as loose cladding, deteriorating concrete, or water leakage that could compromise structural integrity. Early detection prevents minor issues from escalating into costly repairs or even accidents.

Regular facade inspection also enhances the durability of a building, preserving its aesthetics and value. Maintaining facades prevents corrosion, water ingress, and surface degradation. Scheduled inspections allow property owners to plan maintenance effectively and avoid emergency repairs that can disrupt building operations. By keeping facades in optimal condition, buildings remain attractive, safe, and long-lasting.

Regulatory Compliance in Singapore

Singapore’s Building Control Act mandates facade inspection for qualifying buildings to ensure public safety and structural soundness. Once a building is due for inspection, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) issues a Notice for PFI to the owner. Compliance requires appointing a Competent Person (CP), who is either a Professional Engineer or Registered Architect with a Certificate in Facade Inspection.

The appointed CP conducts a detailed facade inspection, identifies any defects, and provides a report with recommendations. Property owners must submit this report to the BCA and address any required repairs. Failure to comply can result in penalties or unsafe building conditions. Proof-Tech guides clients through each step of this process, ensuring facade inspection reports meet regulatory standards while minimizing administrative challenges.

Proof-Tech’s Expertise in Facade Inspection

Proof-Tech has over 20 years of experience in waterproofing, facade maintenance, and repair services, making it a trusted provider of facade inspection in Singapore. The company offers:

Certified Inspectors – Proof-Tech employs highly qualified Competent Persons who have the credentials and experience to conduct thorough inspections, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Advanced Equipment – Modern inspection tools and techniques allow accurate evaluation of facade conditions, detecting cracks, water ingress, corrosion, and other defects efficiently.

Comprehensive Reporting – Detailed reports include photographs, findings, and practical recommendations for repair or maintenance. Clients receive clear guidance to make informed decisions.

Proven Track Record – Proof-Tech has successfully completed facade inspection and repair projects across commercial, residential, and industrial properties, earning a reputation for quality, reliability, and professionalism.

The Facade Inspection Process

Proof-Tech follows a structured approach to ensure thorough and efficient facade inspection:

Initial Consultation – The process begins with a consultation to understand the building’s specific needs, history, and current condition. Property owners receive a clear explanation of the facade inspection process.

Facade Assessment – Certified Competent Persons conduct a meticulous inspection, using advanced equipment to examine concrete, cladding, waterproofing, metalwork, and paint surfaces.

Reporting – After inspection, Proof-Tech provides a comprehensive report including photographs, detailed findings, and actionable recommendations. Clients gain a complete understanding of the building’s facade condition.

Repair and Maintenance – If defects are detected, Proof-Tech offers end-to-end solutions, including concrete repair, waterproofing, repainting, and redecoration, ensuring repairs meet the highest quality standards.

BCA Submission – Proof-Tech assists with the submission of the facade inspection report to the BCA, ensuring all documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant with regulations.

Benefits of Choosing Proof-Tech for Facade Inspection

Accurate Diagnosis – Minor defects often go unnoticed until they cause significant problems. Proof-Tech’s inspections identify all issues early, preventing costly repairs.

Practical Recommendations – Clients receive clear, actionable advice tailored to the unique needs of their building. Recommendations are designed to resolve defects effectively and efficiently.

Cost Savings – Preventive maintenance reduces the likelihood of major structural failures, protecting investments and avoiding unexpected repair costs.

Regulatory Compliance – Proof-Tech ensures all facade inspection reports and subsequent repairs meet BCA requirements, keeping buildings compliant and safe.

Safety and Longevity – Proper inspection and timely repairs enhance the structural integrity, appearance, and overall value of the building for years to come.

Common Issues Identified During Facade Inspection

Concrete Cracks and Spalling – Concrete can develop cracks and surface spalling due to age, weathering, or structural stress.

Water Leakage and Waterproofing Failures – Water ingress can damage interiors, corrode metal elements, and accelerate facade deterioration.

Corrosion of Metal Components – Metal frames, railings, and cladding may corrode if protective coatings degrade over time.

Paint Fading or Peeling – Exterior paint may peel, blister, or fade, impacting both aesthetics and surface protection.

Loose or Unstable Cladding – Panels, tiles, or other facade elements can loosen, posing safety risks to occupants and passersby.

Proof-Tech’s Total Facade Solutions

Proof-Tech is a BCA-registered contractor with specialist certifications in Concrete Repairs (CR05), Repairs & Redecoration (CR09), and Waterproofing Installation (CR13), as well as General Building (CW01). This comprehensive registration allows Proof-Tech to handle all aspects of facade inspection and repair. Clients benefit from:

Single-Point Solution – Property owners avoid hiring multiple contractors for concrete repair, waterproofing, painting, or restoration.

Expert Workmanship – Skilled technicians ensure repairs are performed according to industry standards, using high-quality materials and techniques.

Responsive Service – Proof-Tech’s team of over 180 professionals delivers quick response times and reliable service for commercial, residential, and industrial projects.

Cost Transparency – Competitive pricing and clear quotations provide clients with confidence and value for money.

Partnering with Proof-Tech

Choosing Proof-Tech for facade inspection ensures buildings remain safe, compliant, and well-maintained. The company’s combination of experience, certified personnel, advanced tools, and comprehensive services makes it a trusted partner for property managers, developers, and building owners across Singapore. Addressing facade issues early prevents costly repairs, enhances safety, and maintains the building’s visual appeal and market value.

FAQs About Facade Inspection

Q1: How often should a facade inspection be done?
Buildings over 20 years old must undergo facade inspection every seven years under the PFI regime, except for certain residential, temporary, or low-rise buildings.

Q2: Who can conduct a facade inspection?
A Competent Person, such as a Professional Engineer or Registered Architect with a Certificate in Facade Inspection, is required.

Q3: What does a facade inspection report include?
Reports contain detailed findings, photographs, defect analysis, and recommended maintenance or repairs.

Q4: Does Proof-Tech provide repair services after inspection?
Yes. Proof-Tech offers comprehensive repair and maintenance solutions including concrete repair, waterproofing, repainting, and redecoration.

Q5: How does Proof-Tech assist with regulatory compliance?
Proof-Tech helps with report submission to the BCA and ensures all documentation meets legal requirements for facade inspection.

Q6: Why choose Proof-Tech for facade inspection?
Certified inspectors, modern equipment, detailed reporting, and over 20 years of experience provide accurate assessment, practical recommendations, and complete compliance with regulations.

You might also enjoy