Did you know that from 1 October 2025, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) will introduce the new Building Control (Fixed Installations) Regulations 2025. These regulations will replace the older Lifts and Escalators (Building and Maintenance and Strata Management) Regulations and reshape how lifts, escalators, and mechanised parking systems are designed, installed, maintained, and reported in Singapore.
In this article, we break down what the new regulations mean for building owners, contractors, and developers and how you can prepare to stay compliant. At Emaan Inspection Pte Ltd (EIPL), our goal is to make this transition as smooth, practical, and cost-efficient as possible, so your projects remain safe, compliant, and on schedule.
What’s Changing
The new regulations bring several important updates that affect almost every stage of a project from design to operation.
1. Clearer rules, updated standards
The current LEBM Regulations will be phased out. In their place, BCA is introducing a more structured and transparent framework for fixed installations, ensuring stronger oversight at every stage of a lift or escalator’s life cycle.
2. Approval before installation
Under the new rules, plan approval from BCA will be required before any installation work begins. This ensures that lift and escalator systems are designed and built to the required safety and performance standards before they reach the installation.
3. Stricter contractor and QP requirements
Only registered contractors and recognised Qualified Persons (QPs) will be allowed to carry out work on lifts, escalators, and mechanised parking systems. This change strengthens professional accountability and helps maintain consistent quality across all projects.
4. Mandatory reporting of incidents and defects
In the event of a safety issue, defect, or accident, the responsible party must report it promptly to BCA in a standardised format. This enables faster investigations, corrective actions, and better industry data for future prevention of such defects and incidents.
Why This Matters (Beyond Just “More Rules”)
The new Fixed Installation Regulations represent a step towards a safer and more efficient built environment.
1. More accountability, earlier in the process
Design checks will now take place before construction begins. This helps to identify potential issues early, reduce costly rework, and ensure that systems meet compliance standards from day one.
2. Stronger governance and quality assurance
The emphasis on firm-level systems means that companies must demonstrate that they have trained staff, clear documentation, and reliable quality processes. For owners, this translates into fewer risks and greater peace of mind.
3. Competitive advantage for early adopters
Firms that prepare early by aligning their internal systems, training staff, and engaging certified partners will find it easier to secure approvals and deliver projects on time.
4. Risks for those who delay
Organisations that postpone compliance may face longer approval timelines, costly redesigns, or even project delays if they fail to meet new submission and certification standards.
Preparing for 2025 and Beyond
Every stakeholder in the built environment has a role to play in this transition:
For lift owners and developers
- Start reviewing your projects and existing systems now.
- Identify any gaps in documentation, design, or safety compliance.
- Engage qualified consultants or inspection firms early for advice.
For contractors and QPs
- Ensure your firm is registered with BCA and that your teams are trained to operate under the new regulatory requirements.
- Build stronger coordination with design consultants and inspection partners.
For inspection firms and maintenance providers
- Strengthen your internal governance, audit systems, and reporting structures.
- Stay informed on regulatory updates to advise clients effectively.
For everyone
- Maintain close communication with BCA and submit your fixed installation plans as early as possible.
- Early preparation prevents costly surprises and project disruptions once the new regime takes effect.
The Bigger Picture
Ultimately, these new regulations are about building trust, safety, and long-term reliability in the systems that keep our buildings moving. By encouraging better design practices, transparent reporting, and qualified oversight, BCA is helping the entire industry operate at a higher standard. EIPL welcomes these regulatory changes and is ready to support building owners, developers, and contractors through the transition.
Our team of experienced Professional Engineers and inspectors can:
- Review your current lift and escalator systems for compliance.
- Advise on design submissions and documentation requirements.
- Provide independent inspection and certification services that meet BCA’s evolving standards.
If you’re preparing for the new Fixed Installation Regulations, or simply want to ensure your upcoming projects are fully compliant, we’re here to help.📩 Get in touch with us at www.emaan.com.sg/eipl — and let’s ensure your systems are safe, compliant, and ready for 2025 and beyond.
