In a statement released on Monday, the Building and Construction Authority said it hopes to raise the level of professionalism among builders by requiring them to meet minimum standards of management, safety record and financial solvency.

This licencing requirement for builders first kicked in on Dec 16.

Two types of licences will be issued:

1) the General Builder licence pertains to builders undertaking general building works where plans need to be approved by the Commissioner of Building Control.

This has two classes. Class 1 lets the holder carry on the business of a general builder for any project while a Class 2 licence restricts the holder to projects not more than $6 million in value.

2) the Specialist Builder licence is for builders who work in specialist areas which have a high impact on public safety and require specific expertise.

Every builder must appoint two key personnel - the Approved Person and the Technical Controller - in order to attain their official licence.

The Approved Person will take charge and direct the management of the business which relates to the building works in Singapore, while the Technical Controller will carry out personal supervision of the execution and performance of building works.

For more information, please visit www.bca.gov.sg.