First-Time Homeowner Service Checklist: Singapore 2026 Guide | Homejourney
This definitive first home checklist equips Singapore's new homeowners with everything needed for a seamless transition into HDB flats, condos, or landed properties. From utilities activation to essential home services, Homejourney prioritizes your safety with verified providers, transparent pricing, and real reviews to build trust from day one.
Executive Summary
Becoming a first-time homeowner in Singapore marks a major milestone, but the post-key collection phase demands immediate action on utilities, safety, maintenance, and setup. This exhaustive guide—your ultimate first home checklist—covers HDB regulations, condo MCST rules, current 2026 pricing, and practical steps tailored to Singapore's unique context. Homejourney verifies every service provider, ensuring new homeowner services are safe, reliable, and hassle-free. Expect to invest S$2,000–S$5,000 in initial setups, with ongoing essential home services at S$500–S$1,500 annually.[1][4]
Key highlights include checklists for immediate inspections, utility setups per HDB guidelines, renovation permits from BCA/URA, and booking vetted pros via Homejourney. We've drawn from official sources like HDB's MyNiceHome and real Singapore homeowner experiences for authoritative advice.[4]
Table of Contents
- Pre-Move-In Inspections & Safety Checks
- Utilities Setup: SP Services, Water & Gas
- Essential Home Services for New Owners
- HDB/Condo Renovation Checklist
- Furnishing & Appliance Checklist
- Child & Pet Safety Measures
- Home Insurance Essentials
- Ongoing Maintenance Schedule
- Choosing Trusted Providers via Homejourney
- Frequently Asked Questions
Pre-Move-In Inspections & Safety Checks
Before unpacking, conduct a thorough inspection to catch issues early, avoiding costly repairs. HDB flats require this within 7 days of key collection; condos follow MCST bylaws.[2][4] Hire a certified inspector (S$300–S$600) for plumbing, electrical, and structural checks.[2]
Plumbing Inspection Checklist
| Item | Check For | Action if Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Faucets & Sinks | Drips, leaks, pressure | PUB report; plumber (S$150–S$300) |
| Water Heater | Functionality, leaks | Replace if >10yrs (S$800+) |
| Water Meter | Unusual readings | Leak test via PUB app |
Electrical checks are critical: label DB box fuses (e.g., which controls kitchen outlets). Faulty wiring risks fires—common in older HDBs. BCA-licensed electricians charge S$200–S$400 for safety certification.[2] Insider tip: Test all sockets with a plug tester (S$10 from Mustafa Centre); photograph issues for HDB claims.[1][2]
Pest Control
New homes often have pests from construction. Engage NEA-licensed pros within week 1 (S$200–S$400 for 3-bedroom HDB). Check for termites in woodwork, especially landed properties.[2]
Utilities Setup: SP Services, Water & Gas
Set up accounts pre-move-in via SP Services at HDB Hub or app. Security deposits: S$40–S$400 (citizens/PRs), S$80–S$800 (others).[4] Activate electricity (100A DB standard for HDB), water (PUB), and gas (City Gas or Town Gas).
Utilities Timeline Table
| Utility | Provider | Deposit (2026) | Setup Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | SP Services | S$40–S$400 | 1–3 days |
| Water | PUB | S$100 avg | Instant online |
| Gas | City/Town Gas | S$50–S$150 | 2–5 days |
For condos, confirm MCST approvals for high-load appliances. Homejourney's verified partners handle setups seamlessly—book via https://www.homejourney.sg for 24/7 support.[4]
Essential Home Services for New Owners
New homeowner services like cleaning and aircon checks prevent early breakdowns. Post-renovation deep clean (S$400–S$800 for 4-room HDB) removes dust; book via Homejourney for vetted cleaners.[1] Aircon servicing (S$80–S$150/unit, chemical wash S$200+) is vital in humid Singapore—schedule quarterly.Aircon Leaking Water Cost Guide: Singapore 2026 Prices | Homejourney
- Move-In Cleaning: Dust, grime removal (2–4 hours).
- Aircon Check: Filters, gas levels (BCA licensed).
- Lock Change: S$150–S$300 for security.
Original insight: 70% of new HDB owners face aircon issues from construction residue—preempt with Homejourney's service guarantee.[1]
HDB/Condo Renovation Checklist
HDB requires HDB eApplication for permits (free, 7 days approval). No structural changes without URA/BCA nod. Budget S$30,000–S$60,000 for 4-room BTO.[3]
- Conceptualize: Mood boards, ID consultation (S$2–S$5/psf).
- Permits: HDB portal; condo MCST submission.
- Hack walls, wiring (BCA licensed).
- Electrical/plumbing upgrades.
- Painting, flooring.
- Handover inspection: Snag list rectification.
Tip: For Punggol BTOs, opt for false ceilings to hide ducts—saves S$1,000 vs full hack.[3] Book IDs via Homejourney for transparent quotes.
Furnishing & Appliance Checklist
Prioritize functionality for small HDBs (e.g., 900sqft 4-room). Energy-efficient appliances cut SP bills 20%.[1]
Room-by-Room Essentials (2026 Prices)
- Kitchen: Fridge (S$800), cooker hood (S$400), non-stick set (S$150), cleaners.[1]
- Bathroom: Towels (S$50/set), mats, organizers (S$100 total).[1]
- Bedroom: Bedding (S$300), wardrobe (S$1,000).[1]
- Living: Sofa (S$1,500), TV (S$800), lamps.[1]
Measure precisely: HDB kitchens avg 2m x 2.5m—modular fits best. Shop IKEA/ Courts for deals; Homejourney links to verified delivery.[1]
Child & Pet Safety Measures
Secure homes per HDB guidelines: Outlet covers (S$20), safety gates (S$100), furniture anchors (S$50).[5] Keep heavy items from windows; BCA recommends wall straps.
- Lock cabinets, fridges.
- Smoke detectors (mandatory, S$50).
- Pet-proof: Raised food bowls, gates.
For high-floor HDBs like Toa Payoh, add window grilles (S$200–S$400).[5]
Home Insurance Essentials
HDB offers basic HDB Fire Insurance (S$20–S$50/year); upgrade via Homejourney partners for contents coverage (S$200–S$500/year).[4] Covers fire, theft, floods—essential post-move-in.
Ongoing Maintenance Schedule
Quarterly: Aircon, pest control. Biannual: Plumbing flush. Annual: Electrical inspection (S$300).[2] Track via Homejourney app for reminders and bookings.
| Frequency | Service | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Quarterly | Aircon Service | S$80–S$150/unit |
| Annual | Pest Control | S$250 |
Choosing Trusted Providers via Homejourney
Look for BCA/NEA licenses, verified reviews. Red flags: No upfront pricing, unlicensed work. Homejourney vets providers, offers real reviews, service guarantees, and 24/7 emergency booking at https://www.homejourney.sg. Compare aircon fixes hassle-free—see Aircon Leaking Water Cost Guide: Singapore 2026 Prices | Homejourney ">Aircon Leaking Water Cost Guide.最佳清洁2026：顶级推荐常见问题和解决方案 | Homejourney
Actionable: Download Homejourney app, verify provider license on BCA portal, get quotes in-app.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first home checklist for Singapore HDB?
Inspect plumbing/electrical, set up SP utilities, change locks, deep clean, buy insurance. Full details above.[1][2][4]
How much are essential home services for new owners in 2026?
S$2,000–S$5,000 initial; aircon S$80+, cleaning S$400+.[1]
Do I need permits for HDB renovations?
Yes, via HDB eApplication. No hacking load-bearing walls.[3]
How to book safe new homeowner services?
Use Homejourney for verified pros, transparent pricing: https://www.homejourney.sg.
When to service aircon after moving in?
Immediately post-construction; quarterly thereafter. Check Why Is My Aircon Leaking Water: Singapore Fixes & Homejourney Guide ">Aircon Fixes Guide.如何选择最佳清洁2026：顶级推荐服务商：新加坡业主指南 | Homejourney
SP Services deposit for first-time HDB owners?
S$40–S$400 for citizens/PRs.[4]
Ready for your first home checklist? Start with Homejourney's verified essential home services for a safe, trusted setup. Explore properties at https://www.homejourney.sg/search or financing at bank rates. Your secure home journey begins here.
