Project Details
Introduction
At Hin Chong, we specialise in comprehensive full lift modernisation solutions that extend equipment lifespan, eliminate obsolescence, and transform aging lift systems into reliable, modern installations. This case study showcases our ongoing phased modernisation project for a mid-sized condominium. This is a strategic initiative to comprehensively upgrade all 9 passenger lifts serving this mid-sized residential estate.
When the Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) reached out to us through our website contact form, they faced a critical situation: their 23-year-old lift systems were experiencing escalating breakdown frequency, skyrocketing repair costs, and the imminent threat of parts obsolescence that would soon render the lifts inoperable. Our non-biased approach, proven technical expertise, and compelling modernisation proposal won us this significant project amongst fierce competition from multiple vendors including the incumbent contractor.
The Challenge
Problem
The mid-sized condominium had been serviced by the incumbent lift company since 2002. After 23 years of operation, the aging lift systems were showing severe signs of deterioration with multiple critical issues threatening the estate's daily operations.
Breakdown frequency had increased significantly over recent years, causing frequent disruptions to residents. The financial impact was substantial—the estate had already spent considerable amounts on part repairs and replacements, with costs continuing to escalate as components aged. Making matters critically worse, the incumbent contractor informed the MCST that their lift model was now obsolete and remaining spare parts were running out rapidly. The lifts would soon have no available replacement parts whatsoever.
This created an urgent and serious problem for the estate. With 9 passenger lifts total and each block served by only a single lift, any extended outage would cause severe inconvenience and resident frustration. The combination of increasing breakdowns, rising costs, poor ride quality with significant jerking, and imminent parts obsolescence made the situation untenable.
Given the severity and urgency, the MCST decided to embark on a full lift modernisation to comprehensively resolve all existing issues. They invited several potential vendors including the incumbent to propose solutions. After receiving our enquiry through the website, we conducted a complimentary non-obligatory full lift health assessment to thoroughly evaluate the current condition, then submitted our detailed proposal with recommendations.
Solution
Following the assessment, we proposed a comprehensive full lift modernisation program addressing both the control systems and driving systems, coupled with a complete interior refurbishment to enhance estate value and aesthetics.
Our modernisation solution focused on five key objectives:
- Extended Lifespan: Prolong service life by at least 20 additional years through complete system renewal
- Eliminated Obsolescence: Replace aging components with modern systems using readily available spare parts
- Enhanced Reliability: Dramatically reduce breakdown frequency and achieve high uptime through proven technology
- Long-Term Cost Savings: Greatly reduce ongoing repair and replacement expenses
- Improved Aesthetics: Enhance estate value through contemporary interior refurbishment
The full lift modernisation scope covered comprehensive upgrades across both electrical and mechanical systems:
Control System Modernisation (Electrical & Electronic)
- Advanced microprocessor-based controllers
- Variable frequency drive (VFD) technology
- New car operating panels (COP) and hall operating panels (HOP)
- Modern LED display indicators
- Complete rewiring throughout
Driving System Modernisation (Mechanical)
- New high-efficiency main motor
- Replacement of all main wire ropes
- Modern overspeed governor for enhanced safety
Interior Refurbishment
- Replaced cracked old floor tiles with durable vinyl flooring
- Installed contemporary modern ceiling design
- Replaced damaged wooden wall panels with scratch-resistant laminate finishes
- Professional polishing of all floor landing doors
Given the scope of 9 lifts, we implemented a phased one-at-a-time approach to maintain continuous lift access for residents. Each lift modernisation including interior refurbishment requires 4-5 weeks to complete.
In the final interview presentation, we detailed our technical approach, explained how our solution would tremendously resolve their lift issues, demonstrated our cost-effective methodology, and showed how the modernisation would enhance overall estate value. Our non-biased professional approach, comprehensive proposal, and proven track record won us the project.
Key Results and Outcomes
The project commenced in August 2025 and remains ongoing as we systematically modernise each lift. To date, we have successfully completed full modernisation of 2 lifts, with both installations delivered on schedule within the projected 4-5 week timeframe.
Performance results from the completed lifts have been exceptional. Residents have provided very positive feedback on the dramatically improved smoothness and riding comfort—the previous jerking issues have been completely eliminated. The aesthetically pleasing new interior look and feel has been particularly well-received, with residents expressing appreciation for the modern, refreshed appearance.
Reliability improvements have met our objectives. The modernised lifts are operating with zero breakdowns since completion, demonstrating the effectiveness of the new control and driving systems. The obsolescence issue has been fully resolved—all new components use current technology with readily available spare parts, ensuring future repairs can be completed quickly without extended lead times or inflated costs.
The MCST is already experiencing the financial benefits through eliminated emergency repair costs and greatly reduced ongoing maintenance requirements. The positive feedback and comments from residents have been heartening and motivating for our team as we prepare to complete the remaining 7 lifts.
Conclusion
This ongoing modernisation project at a mid-sized condominium exemplifies Hin Chong's capability to deliver large-scale phased lift upgrades that transform aging problematic systems into reliable, modern installations. The success of the first 2 completed lifts validates our technical approach and demonstrates the tangible benefits of comprehensive modernisation.
By choosing full lift modernisation over continued expensive repairs of obsolete systems, the mid-sized condominium's MCST has made a strategic investment that will serve their estate reliably for decades to come. The combination of extended lifespan, eliminated obsolescence, enhanced reliability, reduced costs, and improved aesthetics delivers exceptional long-term value.
We're proud to have earned this MCST's trust as a new customer through our professional approach and compelling proposal. Our team remains committed to delivering the same quality excellence across the remaining 7 lifts, ensuring every resident at our client's condominium benefits from safe, comfortable, and reliable lift service.
For Management Corporations facing similar challenges with aging lift systems, rising breakdown rates, and obsolescence concerns, Hin Chong offers proven full lift modernisation solutions backed by technical expertise, professional project management, and unwavering commitment to quality outcomes.
