Singapore’s built environment sector is one of the most regulated and streamlined in the region. As the industry continues to evolve, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) plays a pivotal role in maintaining safety, quality, and sustainability. One of the critical aspects of this regulation is the licensing of builders. Whether you're a local contractor, developer, or foreign company looking to enter Singapore’s construction market, understanding the BCA builder licensing requirements is essential.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the categories, application procedures, qualifications, and compliance issues related to BCA builder licenses in Singapore.
The Builder Licensing Scheme ensures that only qualified and competent professionals and firms undertake construction works. Licensing:
Enhances safety and accountability
Upholds quality assurance
Reduces risks of structural failures
Promotes professionalism across the industry
Under the Building Control Act, all builders intending to carry out building works in Singapore must be licensed by the BCA.
The BCA issues two main types of builder licences:
This licence is for firms or individuals undertaking general building works. It is divided into two classes:
Class 1 General Builder Licence
For builders handling larger or more complex projects, including high-rise buildings and industrial projects with no project size limit.
Class 2 General Builder Licence
For builders involved in smaller-scale projects, such as minor building works or renovations with a gross floor area not exceeding 1,500 square metres, or involving less than 30 metres in height.
Specialist Builder Licences are required for firms performing specialised building works. Categories include:
Piling Works
Structural Steelworks
Pre-cast Concrete Works
Curtain Wall Installation
Site Investigation Works
Ground Support and Stabilisation Works
Deep Excavation Works
Each category is distinct and requires its own license.
You need a builder licence if:
You are a contractor executing building works as defined under the Building Control Act.
You undertake substantial works, such as erection, alteration, or addition to any building structure.
You are a main contractor engaged by a developer or property owner.
You do not need a builder licence if:
You perform only interior renovation not involving structural elements.
You are subcontracted by a licensed builder (though it's still recommended to be registered).
To obtain a licence, firms and individuals must meet key competency, financial, and experience criteria.
Track Record: Proven track record in construction, particularly for Class 1 applicants.
Key Personnel: Must have at least one full-time employee designated as the Approved Person (AP) who:
Holds relevant construction qualifications (e.g., civil engineering degree/diploma).
Has a minimum of 5 years (for Class 1) or 3 years (for Class 2) relevant experience in managing building projects.
Financial Standing:
Positive net worth.
Evidence of financial ability to carry out projects.
Business Registration: Entity must be registered with ACRA.
The firm must:
Employ a competent Approved Person with technical knowledge and experience in the relevant specialist field.
Possess relevant equipment and machinery.
Demonstrate track record in specialist works.
Each specialist trade has tailored requirements based on risk level and complexity.
The BCA application is submitted online via the CORENET e-Submission System. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:
Company ACRA profile
Financial statements (latest)
Academic and employment certificates of key personnel
Project references (past 5 years)
Safety records (if applicable)
Choose licence type: General or Specialist
Upload documents
Provide details of the Approved Person
Class 1 General Builder: SGD 600
Class 2 General Builder: SGD 300
Specialist Builder: SGD 300 per category
BCA may request interviews or further documentation.
Processing typically takes 4–6 weeks.
Licences are valid for 3 years.
Renewal applications should be made at least 2 months before expiry.
Holding a BCA licence is not the end—it comes with responsibilities. Builders must:
Appoint qualified site supervisors for all projects.
Ensure compliance with building regulations and standards.
Implement proper worksite safety and risk management measures.
Submit required documents (e.g., site safety plans, method statements).
Engage registered engineers for professional services when required.
Maintain clear communication with the developer, consultants, and authorities.
To renew your builder licence, you must:
Submit updated financial and corporate documents
Show continued compliance with safety and regulatory standards
Update the track record and key personnel’s credentials
Important: Renewal can be rejected if the builder has a history of non-compliance, poor safety record, or misrepresentation.
Operating as a builder without a valid licence is a serious offence under the Building Control Act. Offenders may face:
Fines up to SGD 100,000
Imprisonment up to 12 months
Disqualification from holding a licence in future
Blacklisting from government tenders
In addition, licensed builders who breach conditions may face:
Suspension or cancellation of licence
Public censure
Legal proceedings in the event of accidents or regulatory breaches
To remain in good standing, builders should adopt the following best practices:
Continually upgrade the skills of staff, especially site supervisors and engineers.
Implement stringent safety protocols and conduct regular audits.
Embrace BIM, project management software, and IoT solutions for construction monitoring.
Document all project activities, incidents, and compliance submissions.
Track changes in BCA guidelines, building codes, and regulatory updates.
Many confuse BCA’s builder licence with other schemes. Here’s how it differs:
| Scheme | Purpose | Required For |
|---|---|---|
| BCA Builder Licence | Legal licence to perform building works | All main contractors |
| BCA Contractor Registry (CW01–CW02) | For public sector tenders | Eligibility to bid for government contracts |
| BizSAFE | Workplace safety certification | Recommended but not mandatory |
| SCDF Licensing | For fire safety works | Subcontractors and fire engineers |
In Singapore’s tightly regulated construction industry, the BCA builder licence is more than just a permit—it’s a stamp of credibility, responsibility, and professionalism. Whether you're a startup builder or an established construction firm, ensuring compliance with BCA licensing requirements is a non-negotiable step toward sustainable growth and market trust.
By understanding and fulfilling your obligations under the BCA framework, you’ll not only safeguard your business from legal trouble but also contribute to building a safe, resilient, and world-class urban landscape.
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