Planning an architectural or authority-submission appointment

Client guidance

Prepare the right information before the first discussion.

These introductory notes help Singapore property owners and project teams prepare for an architectural, study or authority-submission enquiry. Requirements vary by property and scope; VivATA will review the available information before recommending an appointment or submission pathway.

Discuss your project

01

Considering a change of use

Start by confirming the approved use of the premises, the intended new activity, tenancy constraints and whether planning or technical approvals may be required. Early review helps identify the correct authority pathway before fit-out or operational commitments are made.

Useful information to prepare

  • Existing approved use and address
  • Proposed business activity
  • Tenancy or ownership documents
  • Available plans and proposed layout

02

When a Qualified Person may be needed

A Qualified Person may be required when proposed building works or submissions fall within Singapore’s statutory approval framework. The exact appointment depends on the property, scope and authorities involved, so the project should be reviewed before a submission route is confirmed.

Useful information to prepare

  • Description of proposed works
  • Existing and proposed drawings
  • Property type and location
  • Known authority correspondence

03

Preparing for fire-safety review

Changes to layout, occupancy, escape provisions or fire-protection systems can affect fire-safety requirements. A useful first review brings together the intended use, current plans, proposed alterations and any previous fire-safety approvals.

Useful information to prepare

  • Current floor plan
  • Proposed layout and occupancy
  • Existing fire-safety records
  • Fit-out and operational requirements

04

Starting an architectural appointment

A clear brief allows the architect to advise on scope, programme, consultant needs and an appropriate fee basis. The first conversation should establish the project objectives, site conditions, decision-makers, budget expectations and desired timeline.

Useful information to prepare

  • Project objectives
  • Site or premises information
  • Budget and programme expectations
  • Known constraints and stakeholders

05

Using a feasibility study

A feasibility study helps owners test opportunities and constraints before committing to detailed design or construction. Depending on the brief, it may consider planning context, capacity, operations, façade options, compliance matters and viable next steps.

Useful information to prepare

  • Decision the study must support
  • Site and building information
  • Operational requirements
  • Options or constraints already identified

This page provides general introductory information, not regulatory or project-specific advice. Authority requirements and appointment scope should be confirmed against the current project circumstances.