Singapore · Service guide
Conservation Shophouse Restoration & A&A Singapore
Protect heritage fabric while planning the next use.
A conserved shophouse needs a conservation-led review before alterations or a new use is planned. Repair methods, retained features and structural interventions must suit the building’s specific conservation requirements.
Plan your project ↗What the scope can include
Agree the included works, quantities and exclusions before comparing quotations. The following items form a starting point for a site-specific scope.
- Existing fabric and condition documentation
- Facade, timber window, roof and airwell scope coordination
- Party-wall and floor structure assessment with appointed professionals
- Compatible material and repair-method review
- Use, fire safety and services coordination
Budget planning in Singapore dollars
These are illustrative early budgeting allowances, not verified market averages or a Mint X quotation. Site inspection and a defined specification are needed for pricing. GST, professional fees, authority charges, specialist equipment and abnormal conditions are excluded unless expressly included.
| Scope | Allowance / pricing basis |
|---|---|
| Conservation feasibility and survey allowance | S$5,000–20,000+ |
| Restoration and structural intervention | Measured after condition and heritage review |
Approvals and responsibilities
URA requires Conservation Permission for relevant conservation A&A works. Fire resistance periods and structural solutions must come from the approved professional design, not a universal shophouse rule.
| Responsible party | Review item |
|---|---|
| URA | Planning or change-of-use review where applicable |
| BCA / QP / PE | Structural design, approval and permit review where applicable |
| SCDF | Fire safety review for affected systems and layouts |
Project stages and timing
Allow a dedicated investigation and submission stage. Hidden timber decay, access constraints and conservation detailing can extend design and construction periods.
- Check conservation status, permitted use and existing approvals.
- Record retained features and investigate damaged fabric.
- Develop the conservation and structural proposal with the QP.
- Obtain applicable permissions, execute carefully and document work.
Frequently asked questions
Can a conserved facade be replaced like a normal facade?
No blanket assumption should be made. The conservation guidelines and building-specific requirements govern retention and permitted repairs.
Does conservation permission also approve restaurant use?
No. Conservation, use, fire safety and food-licensing requirements must each be checked for the proposed project.
Related services
Official guidance
Editorial review: 29 October 2026. Authority requirements and project eligibility should be checked by the appointed professionals before work starts.