Renovation approvals and rules · Can wait
Before changing your condo front door or digital lock
General guidance for Singapore condo residents. Follow current official advice and confirm arrangements for your own building.
Confirm the actual door requirements
SCDF advises checking for a serial label near the hinges or frame and asking your MCST if unsure whether the door is fire-rated. An absent label or a neighbour's ordinary door does not prove that the same choice is acceptable for your unit. Ask management to confirm the required specification before ordering.
Check the exact lock and certificate
Since 1 March 2024, a digital lock installed on a fire door must be certified for fire resistance. It can be certified with the door or separately. SCDF says to match the brand and model, check that the lock's rating is at least the door's and confirm the mechanical fail-safe exit feature. The certificate should state the applicable test standard, SS 332 or EN 1634-1.
Keep the closer working
The Fire Code generally requires a self-closing device that returns a fire door against its latch. Its limited bolted-leaf exception does not justify removing a closer from the active leaf. If the closer fails, arrange immediate repair. Do not wedge the door open or disconnect it to solve slamming.
Get the work scope checked
Ask management which appearance, submission and access procedures apply. Confirm door-and-lock compatibility with the supplier and involve a Qualified Person where the applicable fire-safety approval process requires one. Estate permission is not technical certification. Do not drill, substitute hardware or change the scope without checking the revised proposal.
Keep a useful record
Retain the exact models, certificates, quotation, approvals, warranty and operating instructions. Ask the installer to demonstrate normal latching and the manufacturer's exit method if a battery fails. SCDF encourages replacing uncertified locks installed on residential fire doors before March 2024 with certified ones.
Ask your management office
Send your management office this question, with the details it needs already set out: Can I change or modify my main door? I heard it's a fire-rated door.