SINGAPORE: Residents of Punggol Point Cove are unable to move into their new Built-To Order (BTO) flats due to numerous defects, such as uneven walls, hollow structures, water ponding, and missing belongings, leading to frustration with poor workmanship and unresponsive authorities.
One resident shared that his five-room flat, received in March, had uneven and hollow walls.
When he contacted the Housing Development Board (HDB) ‘s Building Services Centre (BSC), he was told the hollow walls were due to the preference of “youngsters nowadays to hack the wall.”
His flat also had holes, scratched windows, and water ponding in the master bathroom.
Another resident, who opted for all optional components, found that the cement screed beneath his vinyl flooring was poorly done, causing additional expenses to remove and replace the flooring.
Other residents reported being advised to “slam it hard” to close poorly fitted doors and found holes in walls taped and painted over after BSC’s rectifications.
One resident encountered expletives etched on her walls and cigarette butts in her flat upon first inspection.
BSC’s inadequate rectifications led to multiple rounds of repairs, with many issues like misaligned windows and pipes left unaddressed.
MP’s response to Punggol Point Cove defects
Residents reached out to Dr Janil Puthucheary, Member of Parliament for Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC, on 28 April with evidence of the defects.
However, the initial positive response dwindled, and they were told the evidence had been deleted to protect their privacy.
Attempts to schedule a meeting with Dr Janil were unsuccessful, with residents being advised to attend Meet-the-People Sessions, which many were unable to attend.
Dr Janil stated in an email to TNP on 23 June that he has been in regular contact with residents, the Resident’s Network, HDB, and the BSC to ensure the homes are ready and defects addressed.
A meeting has been arranged to address these concerns.
On Saturday (29 June), Dr Janil conducted a walkabout in the neighborhood.
The visit followed reports highlighting issues faced by some homeowners who are still unable to move into their units due to unresolved defects.
Dr Janil greeted residents and engaged in brief conversations with them.
However, some attendees expressed disappointment when they were advised to email the MP regarding their grievances.
Despite challenges, some residents appreciated Dr Janil’s appearance.
“Every coin has two sides,” said one of the residents.
“While we can’t expect perfection in new BTOs, I appreciate his effort in conducting this walkabout.”
The walkabout concluded with residents hopeful for timely resolutions to their housing concerns.
Netizens react to Punggol Point Cove BTO defects
In response to the issues at Punggol Point Cove, many netizens have taken to the HardwareZone forum to voice their opinions.
One user criticized the MP, stating that walkabouts should not occur only when there are issues.
They emphasized that new BTO flats should be in acceptable condition upon handover.
Another user questioned the MP’s involvement, pointing out that it’s not the MP who builds the houses, so what can he do?
In response, a netizen pointed out that since the government controls HDB and sets the standards, the problem lies with the government if buildings are not up to standard.
They suggested that enforcement has been lax, leading to sloppy contractor work and that public frustration has grown, especially with the potential 10-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) making quality even more crucial.
One user remarked that the MP could help expedite the rectification process.
Netizens defend MP, criticize Ministry of National Development’s role in BTO defects
However, many users also defended the MP, stating that it’s not his fault and there’s not much he can do.
One user noted that MPs often direct concerned residents to relevant agencies but cannot personally resolve every issue.
They also mentioned that opposition MPs face similar limitations but may offer solutions to appease residents.
A user pointed out that it’s not the MP’s fault that HDB or Ministry of National Development (MND) delivered units full of defects.
They criticized the governing and accountability structure under the PAP, claiming it has collapsed and that agencies and ministries are no longer held accountable.
Another user wondered where the Minister of National Development, Mr Desmond Lee, was during this issue, noting that it is ultimately HDB’s problem, not the MP’s.
