How Long Does a Landed House Rebuild Take? Timeline Breakdown

How Long Does a Landed House Rebuild Take in Singapore? (Realistic Timeline)

Rebuilding a landed home is one of the most rewarding projects a homeowner can undertake, especially for those who have purchased older houses in places like Serangoon Gardens, Thomson, Kovan, Frankel, Opera Estate, and Upper Bukit Timah.

But the most common question homeowners (especially condo upgraders) ask is:

“How long does it actually take to rebuild a landed house in Singapore?”

The honest answer: 18–30 months, depending on design complexity, approvals, structural needs, and whether the home includes an attic, basement, or lift.

Below is a realistic breakdown used by architects and builders in Singapore, with examples drawn from actual landed neighbourhoods.

1. Design & Planning Phase (1–3 Months)

This is where everything begins.

During this period, the architect works with you to lock down:

• Floor plan layout

• Number of storeys

• Attic / basement feasibility

• Open vs enclosed kitchen

• Position of staircase

• Bedroom arrangements

• Master suite sizing

• Façade style

In estates like Serangoon Gardens or Thomson, where land parcels are irregular or narrow, more time may be needed to optimise space.

Why this phase matters

Good planning reduces costly changes later.
Condo upgraders often need extra time here because they’re transitioning from pre-designed condo layouts to fully customised landed floor plans.

2. Authority Submission to URA & BCA (3–6 Months)

This is the part most homeowners underestimate.

A full rebuild requires approval from:

• URA, for envelope control, height limits, building form

• BCA, for structural design & demolition permits

• PUB, if drainage or sewer line upgrades are needed

• SCDF, fire safety clearance

• NParks, if there are mature trees or green buffers

Homes in older estates like Frankel, Opera Estate, and Siglap often require additional drainage approvals due to proximity to low-lying areas.

Why approvals take time

Authorities review:

• Structural safety

• Neighbour impact

• Fire access (especially for semi-Ds and bungalows)

• Setback compliance

• Basement waterproofing strategy

Re-submissions may be required. It's normal.

Total expected time: 3–6 months.

3. Demolition Works (2–4 Weeks)

Once approvals come through, demolition begins.

Steps include:

• Disconnect utilities

• Erect hoarding

• Remove roof

• Tear down slabs and beams

• Clear debris

• Level the land

Narrow roads like those in Joo Chiat, Telok Kurau, and Serangoon Gardens may extend this stage slightly due to limited truck access.

4. Foundation & Structural Construction (4–6 Months)

This is the most significant part of the rebuild.

Structural works include:

• Foundation strengthening or new piles

• Columns, beams, slabs

• Attic floor construction

• Staircase

• Pitched or flat roof structure

Terraces in Frankel / East Coast often require more robust foundation work because soil conditions near coastal zones can vary.

Semi-Ds in Thomson, Windsor Park, and Watten Estate may require more complex structural design if owners want to extend or add an attic.

Why this stage is slow

Concrete requires curing time.
Engineers need to inspect works frequently.
Weather may delay certain stages.

5. Brickwork, Roofing & External Shell (2–3 Months)

Once the structure is complete, the building envelope forms.

This includes:

• External and internal brick walls

• Window openings

• Roof waterproofing

• Façade preparation

If the design includes a modern façade with stone cladding or aluminium fins, preparations begin here.

6. Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (M&E) Works (2–3 Months)

This is a critical stage because M&E determines day-to-day comfort.

Tasks include:

• Electrical wiring

• Plumbing

• Aircon trunking

• Water heater piping

• DB box configuration

• Smart home conduit provision

Older houses often have outdated plumbing systems, so this is a major upgrade, especially appreciated by condo upgraders accustomed to newer infrastructure.

7. Window Installation, Waterproofing & Flooring (1–2 Months)

These elements ensure long-term durability.

Windows

Popular in terrace houses with limited natural light (e.g., Kovan, Serangoon Gardens):

• Full-height sliding panels

• Casement windows

• Window walls

Waterproofing

Critical in:

• Bathrooms

• Balconies

• Roof terraces

• Basement walls (if applicable)

Flooring

Choices include:

• Porcelain tiles

• Vinyl

• Timber

• Marble (for premium homes in Bukit Timah)

8. Carpentry, Kitchens, Wardrobes & Interior Fitting (2–4 Months)

This is often the most time-consuming interior stage.

Carpentry includes:

• Kitchen cabinetry

• Wardrobes

• TV console

• Storage systems

• Shoe cabinets

• Study room built-ins

• Feature walls

For families upgrading from condos, this stage is particularly important since condo layouts are usually storage-efficient, and they want to replicate or exceed that convenience.

9. External Works (1–2 Months)

The home is nearly ready, but the exterior still needs work.

These include:

• Car porch roofing

• Boundary wall

• Auto gate installation

• Outdoor tiling

• Landscaping

• Drainage adjustments

Terraces and semi-Ds in the East Coast (Frankel, Siglap) may need enhanced drainage due to low-lying surroundings.

10. Final Defects Check & Handover (2–4 Weeks)

The builder walks through the house with you and checks:

• Electrical safety

• Water pressure

• Waterproofing

• Finishing quality

• Touch-up painting

• Cabinet alignment

• Window sealing

Once everything is rectified, the home is ready for move-in.

Typical Total Rebuild Timelines by Property Type

Why Some Projects Take Longer Than Expected

Here are common reasons, based on real experiences across Singapore:

✔ Multiple re-submissions to authorities

Occurs more often in Bukit Timah, Thomson, or houses near green buffers.

✔ Design changes mid-way

Especially common among condo upgraders adjusting to landed living.

✔ Material delays

Imported stone or façade elements may face shipping delays.

✔ Tight roads or limited access

Happens in Joo Chiat, Opera Estate, Serangoon Gardens.

✔ Wet weather

December to February construction slows down due to rain.

✔ Basement construction challenges

Requires meticulous waterproofing and soil retention.

Tips for Homeowners Planning a Rebuild

1. Don’t rush the design stage

Good design saves months later.

2. Keep communication clear

Weekly updates from your builder keep the project smooth.

3. Give yourself a realistic move-in buffer

Always assume minor delays, 1–2 months buffer is common sense.

4. Choose quality over speed

A house that lasts 50 years shouldn’t be rushed.

Useful Links

To understand what influences rebuild budgets:
🔗 Cost to Rebuild a Landed House in Singapore (2026 Guide)

If you're deciding between A&A or a full rebuild:
🔗 Rebuild vs A&A: Which Option Is Better?

For homeowners beginning their rebuilding journey:
🔗 Landed House Rebuild Contractor Singapore

If you're exploring full demolition options:
🔗 Tear Down & Rebuild Singapore