How to Choose: Standard vs. Comprehensive Lift Maintenance in Singapore
Lift maintenance in Singapore is a legal requirement by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA)—but how do you decide which lift maintenance package suits your needs? Let’s explore what sets these two lift maintenance options apart.
Understanding Lift Maintenance in Singapore
In Singapore, lift owners are required to engage a BCA-registered lift contractor to conduct regular maintenance for the lifts they own and operate.
Newly installed lifts are also subject to these regulations, requiring maintenance from the moment they are operational.
The maintenance frequency for lifts depends on the specific type of lift in operation:
Home lifts, vertical platform lifts, or stairlifts: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule if provided. If not specified, lift maintenance must be carried out at least once every three months, whichever is more frequent.
All other lifts: Adhere to the manufacturer’s suggested maintenance schedule if available. If none is specified, ensure lift maintenance is performed at least once a month, whichever is more frequent.
Failure to regularly maintain, inspect, and test lifts as required may result in a fine of up to $5,000 for lift owners.
Standard Lift Maintenance in Singapore
Standard lift maintenance is essentially a basic maintenance plan for the budget-conscious lift owner or property manager.
Pros of Standard Lift Maintenance
Standard lift maintenance involves periodic lift servicing tasks. These typically involve inspection and upkeep of key components of a lift system, such as:
Lift Door Functionality
Lift Safety Systems & Emergency Devices
Mechanical Parts & Lubrication
Lift Electrical System
Each lift maintenance service visit should also include proper record-keeping. Records should detail the list of routine tasks completed, as well as faults found and repaired.
Costs associated with standard plans are generally lower than comprehensive contracts. This affordability appeals to lift owners or property managers in charge of lifts in smaller buildings or those with limited budgets.
Cons of Standard Lift Maintenance
Standard lift maintenance usually does not cover the replacement of defective or worn-out parts. If critical components, such as hoisting ropes or drive units fail, you’ll bear the full cost of repairs or replacements. These expenses can accumulate over time, especially for older lifts.
Reactive repairs may also result in unplanned downtime for your lift. If extensive repairs are delayed due to budget constraints, it could disrupt operations within your property. This limitation makes standard plans less ideal for high-traffic buildings where uninterrupted lift service is essential.
Comprehensive Lift Maintenance in Singapore
Comprehensive lift maintenance covers offers a broader scope compared to standard plans, including replacement of some lift parts.
Pros Of Comprehensive Lift Maintenance
Comprehensive lift servicing in Singapore includes routine lift maintenance and repairs under a fixed fee, making costs predictable. By covering major component replacements, comprehensive lift maintenance contracts reduce the financial risks posed by unexpected failures and lift breakdowns.
These plans also ensure higher lift reliability, which is crucial for high-traffic buildings like commercial centres or residential complexes.
Cons Of Comprehensive Lift Maintenance
Comprehensive plans may involve higher upfront costs compared to standard lift maintenance, which can strain budgets for smaller buildings.
In some cases, replacements might face delays if lift contractors prioritise cost management, potentially impacting lift downtime. The best way to overcome this is to develop a Maintenance Control Plan (MCP) in collaboration with your lift maintenance company.
The MCP, developed by the BCA in Singapore, provides clear guidelines for replacement criteria. These guidelines facilitate effective collaboration, minimise potential misunderstandings, and enhance the overall reliability of lifts.
Choosing The Right Lift Maintenance Option For Your Needs
Deciding between standard and comprehensive lift maintenance plans requires careful consideration of cost-effectiveness and the specific needs of your building.
Cost Differences
Standard lift maintenance plans are cheaper but only cover basic services like inspections and replacement of consumables. Unexpected costs may arise when there's a need to replace worn out and defective parts. Comprehensive lift maintenance is pricier upfront but includes repairs and replacements, offering fixed costs and financial predictability.
Suitability For Different Buildings
Standard maintenance suits low-traffic buildings with minimal lift usage, such as small apartment buildings. Comprehensive maintenance is ideal for high-traffic buildings like large residential properties and commercial spaces, in order to achieve lift reliability and tenant satisfaction.
Get Tailored Recommendations From a BCA-registered Lift Contractor
If you are seeking to hire a lift maintenance company in Singapore, our guide highlights 6 red flags to watch out for.
And if you'd like more tailored advice on lift maintenance, feel free to contact Hin Chong. As a BCA-registered lift contractor, we're happy to provide an independent assessment of your lift's condition and offer advice on a suitable lift maintenance plan.
