Periodic Façade Inspection Services (PFI)
Your One-stop provider for facade inspection, building facade repairs, and maintenance services in Singapore.
In Singapore’s urban landscape, maintaining building façade integrity is crucial for public safety. Periodic Façade Inspection (PFI), mandated by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), ensures the structural soundness of our cityscape. With 90 cases of falling debris reported in just 3 years, the need for regular façade inspections is more critical than ever.
At Environ Construction Co. (Pte) Ltd, we offer comprehensive PFI services that exceed BCA regulations. Our team of certified facade inspectors (FIs) and professional engineers (PEs) conducts thorough assessments of building exteriors using advanced drone technology and AI-powered defect detection, we provide efficient and accurate inspections of all façade elements, including curtain wall systems and claddings. Our one-stop solution covers everything from initial visual inspections to final rectification works.
Choose Environ Construction for your PFI needs and invest in your building’s longevity and safety. Our expertise in rope access techniques and thermal imaging ensures a thorough inspection process that goes beyond compliance to truly safeguard your property and its occupants.
Schedule Your PFI AppointmentBCA Regulations and Compliance Requirements
The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore has implemented strict regulations to govern PFI:
Building Criteria:
PFI is mandatory for buildings that are either:
- 20 years of age or older from the date of Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) or Certificate of Statutory Completion (CSC)
- 13 metres in height or taller at their highest point.
Inspection Frequency:
Qualifying buildings must undergo PFI every 7 years.
Competent Person (CP) Appointment:
- Building owners must appoint a qualified CP, such as a professional engineer (PE) or registered architect, to conduct the building façade inspection
Comprehensive Assessment:
- The inspection must cover all façade elements, including claddings, curtain wall systems, and architectural features.
Reporting and Rectification:
- CPs must submit detailed reports to the BCA, and any identified defects require prompt rectification to restore the integrity of the building.
These regulations took effect in 2022, aiming to enhance the inspection regime and bolster public safety across the nation.
Why Choose Environ Construction?
Environ Construction provides one-stop solution for Periodic Façade Inspection (PFI), offering unmatched expertise in building façade maintenance and repair services.
Comprehensive One-Stop Solution
We provide end-to-end services including BCA-compliant Periodic Façade Inspections, building façade repairs, and facilities management services. Our integrated approach ensures seamless coordination from inspection to rectification, saving you time and resources.
Cutting-Edge Drone Technology with AI Integration
Our advanced technology enables superior inspections through high-resolution drone imagery that captures detailed façade elements. AI-powered analysis detects potential defects with high accuracy, while thermal imaging identifies hidden issues like water infiltration. This approach ensures thorough and efficient façade assessments.
Expertise Across the Entire Process
Our multidisciplinary team includes certified façade inspectors, professional engineers (PEs), Competent Persons (CPs) for visual inspections, rope access technicians for hard-to-reach areas, and registered architects for aesthetic and functional assessments. This diverse expertise ensures comprehensive façade evaluation and maintenance.
Tailored Methodology of Repairs (MOR)
We offer a detailed Methodology of Repairs that includes comprehensive repair assessments and solutions considering client convenience. Our MOR integrates specialized trades like M&E and window/cladding/curtain wall systems, providing a clear, actionable plan for efficient façade restoration.
Full Compliance with BCA Regulations
We ensure adherence to the latest BCA regulations by conducting inspections for buildings 20 years of age or older and exceeding 13 metres in height. Our services comply with the 7-year periodic inspection regime and include comprehensive reporting as per BCA requirements, prioritizing public safety and regulatory compliance.
Cost-Effective and Efficient Solutions
Our approach optimizes resources through drone inspections that reduce the need for extensive scaffolding. AI-assisted defect detection minimizes human error, while our one-stop approach eliminates the need for multiple contractor engagements, ensuring cost-effective and efficient solutions.
How The Facade Inspection Works
BCA Notice
The process begins when you receive a Periodic Facade Inspection (PFI) notice from the Building and Construction Authority (BCA).
Contact Environ Construction — Your One-Stop Solution Provider
Upon receiving the notice, contact Environ Construction, your One-Stop Solution Provider. We collaborate with a BCA-registered Competent Person (CP), who is a licensed Architect or Professional Engineer (PE), to oversee the inspection process alongside our in-house Registered Facade Inspector.
Locate As-Built Facade Plans
Gather the necessary document, including Building As-Built Plans and any relevant drawings, to provide insights into the original design and construction of the facade. If unavailable, you can either purchase the Building Plan directly from BCA or Environ Construction can get the appointed CP to assist to purchase the required plan on your behalf.
On-Site Assessment & Quotation/Proposal
Environ Construction will conduct an on-site preliminary assessment and present a comprehensive quotation for the preparation and submission of the Periodic Facade Inspection (PFI) Report to BCA by the CP.
Comprehensive Inspection & Submission of PFI Report
Upon acceptance of the quotation, Environ Construction, in collaboration with the Competent Person (CP) and our in-house Registered Façade Inspector, will carry out a thorough inspection of the building façade. Utilizing advanced drone technology, rope access, and/or boom lifts as required, we ensure a comprehensive assessment of the façade’s condition. The inspection aims to identify both safe and unsafe elements, as well as highlight any necessary repairs within a specified timeframe. All findings and recommendations are meticulously documented in the Periodic Façade Inspection (PFI) report, which will be submitted by the CP for official review and compliance.
Quotation for Defect Rectification Based on PFI Findings
Our team will provide a comprehensive quotation for the rectification of identified defects based on the data and findings gathered from the Periodic Façade Inspection Report.
Execution of Remedial Works and Final Reporting
Upon acceptance of the quotation, Environ Construction will commence the remedial works in accordance with the agreed schedule, ensuring your building façade is restored to its optimal condition while meeting safety and compliance standards. Upon completion, a report detailing the rectified defects with before-and-after documentation of the repair works will be provided.
Completion and Seamless Handover
Upon completing all necessary rectifications, Environ Construction ensures a seamless handover of the project. With our end-to-end service, you can have peace of mind knowing that your building façade meets all regulatory requirements and is maintained to the highest standards of safety and aesthetics.
FAQs On Periodic Facade Inspection
Navigating the requirements of Periodic Facade Inspection (PFI) in Singapore can be complex. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help building owners understand their obligations and the inspection process.
What is a periodic facade inspection?
A periodic facade inspection is a systematic evaluation of a building’s exterior, commonly conducted every few years to assess the condition and safety of the façade. This process identifies any deterioration or unsafe conditions that may require repair or maintenance.
Why is a periodic facade inspection important?
Regular facade inspections are crucial for maintaining the integrity of a building. They help identify potential safety hazards, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and can prevent costly repairs by addressing issues early on.
How often should periodic facade inspections be conducted?
Periodic Facade Inspections (PFI) must be conducted every 7 years as mandated by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) in Singapore. This is a mandatory requirement for buildings that are over 20 years old and taller than 13 meters to ensure structural safety and compliance with national building regulations.
What are the common issues found during a facade inspection?
Common issues identified during a facade inspection include cracks, loose materials, corrosion, water damage, and other signs of deterioration that could lead to unsafe conditions if not addressed promptly.
What happens if defects are found during building facade inspection?
If defects are detected, the CP will include them in the inspection report along with recommendations for repair. Building owners are required to rectify these defects to restore the integrity of the façade and ensure compliance with BCA regulations. Click here to know more on the Facade Inspection Report
How much does a PFI cost?
The cost of a PFI varies depending on the size and complexity of the building. Contact Environ Construction for a free, no-obligation quotation tailored to your specific needs.
What preparations should I make before the PFI?
You’ll need to provide access to the building facade, including rooftops and any restricted areas. It’s also helpful to gather any relevant documentation, such as elevation plan, previous inspection reports or maintenance records.
Are As-Built Façade Plans and Façade drawings necessary for the PFI?
Yes, having As-Built Façade Plans and Façade drawings is beneficial for the inspection process as they provide valuable information about the original design and construction of the facade.
What does the PFI process entail?
The PFI process typically includes a 100 % visual inspection and a minimum 10 % close-up inspection of all facade elements. A detailed report is then prepared, outlining any defects and recommendations for rectification works.
