Why Lift Modernisation is Crucial for Old Condos in Singapore (Real Case Studies)
As Singapore’s condominiums age, one critical concern for Management Corporation Strata Titles (MCSTs) is ensuring the safety, reliability, and value of their properties. One often-overlooked solution? Lift modernisation.
While routine lift maintenance is essential, older lifts can face frequent lift breakdowns, non-compliance with updated regulations, and inefficiencies that drive up costs. For MCSTs, lift modernisation is a long-term investment that can significantly enhance property value and resident satisfaction.
In this article, we’ll feature our own case studies as a Building and Construction Authority (BCA)-registered lift contractor, to showcase the tangible benefits of lift modernisation in Singapore.
What Is Lift Modernisation?
Lift modernisation involves upgrading existing lift systems to incorporate new technology, improve safety features, and enhance reliability.
A typical lift modernisation project in Singapore includes the replacement or upgrade of key components. For instance, control systems are updated with newer models that enable smoother operations and better energy performance. Regenerative drives can be installed to reduce electricity consumption, while LED lighting provides a more energy-efficient interior environment.
Safety upgrades are another crucial aspect. Door safety mechanisms are often improved to prevent accidents, and fire-resistant materials may replace outdated ones to provide added security.
Lift modernisation also considers aesthetic improvements to improve residents' experience. Replacing outdated interior panels with modern designs and installing user-friendly control interfaces create a more welcoming and updated look. These updates not only contribute to user satisfaction, but also increase the property’s appeal and value.
Why Is Lift Modernisation Crucial for Old Condominiums in Singapore?
Older lifts, even those from reputable brands, face a host of challenges as they age:
Frequent Lift Breakdowns: Wear and tear can lead to increased malfunctions, causing safety risks and inconvenience to users.
Parts Obsolescence: As lift technology evolves, spare parts for outdated models become increasingly costly and challenging to obtain. Custom fabrication may even be required in some cases, leading to higher expenses and prolonged downtime.
High Energy Consumption: Outdated lift systems are less energy-efficient, resulting in higher operational costs.
Outdated Aesthetics: Old lifts can detract from a building’s appeal, lowering its market value and resident satisfaction.
Among these four challenges, lift breakdowns and parts obsolescence have been the biggest issues faced by our lift modernisation clients in Singapore.
Case Study 1: Full Lift Modernisation for 6 Lifts in a District 10 Condominium
The challenge:
For more than 20 years, the lifts in this District 10 condominium were serviced by the original lift installation company appointed by the condominium developer. However, this long standing arrangement resulted in a significant challenge—lift components had become obsolete and increasingly hard to source, leading to frequent lift breakdowns occurring multiple times a month.
These repeated lift breakdowns caused growing dissatisfaction among users, as they faced extended waiting times and regular service interruptions.
Results after lift modernisation:
Significant reduction in lift breakdowns, improving lift reliability
Reduced lift maintenance costs as a result of modern, non-proprietary lift components
Read the full case study.
Case Study 2: Full Lift Modernisation for 1 Passenger Lift in a Geylang Condominium
The challenge:
An ageing passenger lift in a 20-year-old Geylang condominium was creating significant problems for residents. As the only lift in the building, its frequent breakdowns caused inconvenience and safety concerns. Obsolete components made repairs costly, with significant lift downtimes.
Two lift breakdowns, each causing the lift to be out of service for two weeks and incurring considerable repair expenses, prompted a resident to escalate the matter to the BCA.
Results after lift modernisation:
Resident satisfaction due to minimal lift breakdowns and downtimes
Lift maintenance cost savings as a result of modern lift components
Enhanced overall value of the estate
Read the full case study.
Case Study 3: Total Lift Replacement for 2 Passenger Lifts in a District 10 Condominium
The challenge:
Another condominium in District 10 encountered ongoing challenges with two passenger lifts, eventually reaching a breaking point.
Repeated lift breakdowns led to significant frustration among residents. Given that each block was serviced by only one lift, the need for a reliable lift system was critical. Despite months of attempts, the existing lift vendor was unable to resolve the problems effectively.
Results after lift modernisation:
Frequent lift breakdowns and resident frustrations were eliminated
New lifts installed were built to last 15 - 20 years, lowering lift maintenance and repair costs
Improved overall property value
Read the full case study.
Key Benefits of Lift Modernisation for Condo MCSTs in Singapore
We hope the above case studies give you a better idea of how lift modernisation has helped older condominiums in Singapore. In fact, it’s safe to say that lift modernisation has become essential to ensure safety, reliability, and long-term cost savings.
Here are the key areas where lift modernisation makes the most significant impact:
Fewer Lift Breakdowns: Lift modernisation upgrades outdated systems which suffer from wear and tear, significantly improving lift reliability.
Reduced Lift Downtime: Old lifts rely on outdated technology, making part replacements challenging and repairs costly. Lift modernisation removes this problem.
Improved Resident Satisfaction: Lifts are crucial components of any multi-storey building, and their functionality has a direct impact on residents' and tenants’ quality of life. A reliable lift is essential for ease of access, particularly in high-rise condominiums where users depend on them heavily for daily activities.
Higher Property Value: Updated lift systems reflect proactive management and a dedicated investment in building infrastructure, assuring potential buyers that the property is well-maintained and equipped for future needs. Lift modernisation also enhances the aesthetic appeal of an old condominium, directly influencing its perceived property value.
Work with a BCA-registered Lift Contractor for Lift Modernisation
Are you considering lift modernisation for an old condominium? Feel free to reach out to our team at Hin Chong for a complimentary lift assessment—we're happy to provide tailored solutions to address your specific needs.
