Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP)
What is TOP (Temporary Occupation Permit)?
A Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) is the permit from Singapore's Building and Construction Authority (BCA) that allows a new building to be occupied once it is safe and fit to live in, even if some technical clearances are still outstanding. For buyers of new homes, TOP is when you collect keys and pay 25% of the price.
Key facts
- Issued by
- The Building and Construction Authority (BCA)
- What it allows
- Occupation of a building, or part of it, before full completion
- Who applies
- The project's Qualified Person, appointed by the developer
- Processing time
- Within 7 working days of a complete application (1 working day for express TOP, if accepted)
- Payment due (new launch)
- 25% of the price, within 14 days of receiving the TOP notice
- Followed by
- The Certificate of Statutory Completion (CSC), once every requirement is met
As of 6 Nov 2026. Source: BCA, Singapore Statutes Online, HDB.
How TOP works
Before anyone can live in a new building, BCA must be satisfied that it is safe and fit for occupation.
- The developer’s Qualified Person applies once the building is ready, with documents such as the builder’s certificate of completion.
- Technical agencies give clearances, for example URA, LTA, NParks, SCDF, PUB and NEA.
- BCA inspects and issues the TOP if the building is fit to occupy, even if some non-safety items are still being cleared.
- The CSC follows once every statutory requirement is met. See Certificate of Statutory Completion.
What TOP means for buyers
| If you bought | What happens at TOP |
|---|---|
| A new private launch | You pay 25% of the price within 14 days of the TOP notice and can collect your keys |
| An executive condominium | The MOP and the countdown to full privatisation start from TOP |
| Any uncompleted home under the standard schedule | This 25% is the largest single payment in the schedule |
The 12-month defects liability period in the standard sale and purchase agreement starts from vacant possession, or the 15th day after you receive the TOP documents, whichever is earlier.
Example
You bought a $1,500,000 new-launch condo. When TOP is issued, the developer sends you a notice with the TOP. Within 14 days you pay 25%, or $375,000, then collect your keys. The final 15%, $225,000, is due when the CSC is issued.
Common mistakes
- Assuming TOP means the project is finished. Some clearances may still be pending until the CSC.
- Not budgeting for the TOP payment. It is a quarter of the price, due within 14 days.
- Waiting to inspect. The defects period may already be running, so check the unit for defects soon after you collect the keys.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between TOP and CSC?
TOP lets people move in when the building is fit for occupation but some agency clearances are still outstanding. CSC is issued when the development has met every statutory requirement. A buyer of a new launch pays 25% of the price on TOP and the last 15% on CSC.
Can I move in before TOP?
No. Under the Building Control Act, a new building can't be occupied until a TOP or CSC has been issued. Breaking this rule is an offence with a fine of up to $20,000, up to 6 months' jail, or both.
Is a TOP proof that the building complies with every rule?
No. The Act says a TOP is only prima facie evidence that a building is suitable for occupation. Full compliance is confirmed by the CSC.
Why does TOP matter for an executive condominium?
For ECs, the minimum occupation period and the years until the EC becomes fully private are counted from TOP.
Related terms
Sources
- Application for TOP/CSC (BCA)
- Building Control Act 1989, section 12 (Occupation of buildings) (Singapore Statutes Online)
- Housing Developers Rules (standard Sale and Purchase Agreement payment schedule) (Singapore Statutes Online)
- Conditions after buying an executive condominium (HDB)
Every figure on this page was checked against the official government sources above on 6 Nov 2026. See our editorial policy.
This is general information, not financial, legal or tax advice.