Short answer
Check five things: the structure (ask for the latest BCA periodic inspection record and hire an engineer), the building envelope and services, the conservation status and approved use on URA's Conservation Portal, evidence that past works were approved, and the tenancy and lease position. Do this before making an offer or signing a lease.
Shophouses Singapore is an independent property resource. This page summarises public sources and is not affiliated with any company, owner or authority named. This page is general information, not legal, engineering or financial advice. Facts are as of the date shown and sourced from the links below. Speak to a qualified lawyer or professional engineer about your situation.
Key facts
- Structure
- Non-residential buildings are inspected every 5 years under BCA's PSI regime
- Status and use
- URA Conservation Portal shows status and allowable uses
- Works
- Works to conserved buildings must comply with URA guidelines
- Hire
- A Professional Engineer or other qualified person
The checklist
| Area | What to look at | Who can help |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Cracks, sagging floors, party walls, timber members, prior PSI reports | Structural engineer |
| Roof and drainage | Leaks, damaged tiles, gutters, water stains | Contractor or engineer |
| Facade | Plaster, tiles, shutters, original features | Conservation specialist |
| Services | Electrical, plumbing, gas, fire safety | Licensed professionals |
| Approvals and use | Conservation status, allowable use, approved works | Qualified person, URA portal |
| Tenancy | Lease terms, arrears, notices | Lawyer |
When to do what
Before viewing
Check conservation status and allowable use; read the listing carefully.
At the viewing
Walk every floor, look up, check damp and cracks, ask for inspection records.
Before the offer
Commission an engineer's check and legal review.
Before completion
Confirm any rectification, approvals and tenancy position in writing.
Read more
See BCA periodic structural inspection for the legal inspection cycle, and the Syed Alwi Road report for a neutral account of a publicly reported incident.
People also ask
Should I hire an engineer before buying a shophouse?+
Many buyers do. An engineer can assess structure and review inspection records. It is not a legal requirement for the purchase.
How do I find a shophouse's conservation status?+
URA's Conservation Portal shows conservation status, guidelines and allowable uses.
Can I ask for the last structural inspection report?+
Yes, ask the seller or landlord for records. BCA requires periodic inspection for non-residential buildings every 5 years.
Is renting different from buying?+
The physical checks are similar, but a tenant also relies on the lease for who is responsible for repairs.
Sources
Facts as of 5 November 2026. Pages we link to may have changed since.
- Periodic Structural Inspection (PSI), Building and Construction Authority. Accessed 2026-11-05.
- Updated and new Do-It-Right Guides for conserved buildings, Urban Redevelopment Authority. Accessed 2026-11-05.
- Conservation Guidelines, Urban Redevelopment Authority. Accessed 2026-11-05.
Next step
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Browse conservation shophousesLast reviewed 5 November 2026. See all shophouse explainers.