Renovating a condo is very different from renovating a landed house. Before any hacking, drilling, or installation begins, one important party must give the green light:
The Joint Management Body (JMB) or Management Corporation (MC).
Many condo renovation delays, fines, and disputes happen not because the renovation is badly done—but because homeowners ignore or underestimate JMB rules.
If you’re planning to renovate a condo unit, here’s what you should know before submitting your renovation application.
✅ DO: Understand That JMB Approval Is Mandatory
In most Malaysian condominiums:
- You must obtain written approval before renovation starts
- Renovation without approval can lead to:
- Stop‑work orders
- Penalties or fines
- Forfeiture of renovation deposits
Even minor works like cabinet installation or flooring replacement may require notification.
✅ DO: Read the Renovation Guidelines Carefully
Every condo has its own renovation guideline, usually covering:
- Allowed renovation hours
- Type of work permitted
- Noise control
- Lift usage rules
- Waste disposal requirements
Don’t assume all condos follow the same rules.
What’s allowed in one building may be prohibited in another.
✅ DO: Submit Complete Documents
Typical documents required include:
- Renovation application form
- Contractor’s business registration
- Worker details & identification
- Scope of work
- Layout drawings (if applicable)
- Renovation deposit & admin fees
Incomplete submission = delayed approval.
✅ DO: Appoint an Experienced Condo Contractor
Not all contractors understand condo renovation requirements.
A condo‑experienced contractor will:
- Know how to coordinate with management
- Protect common areas
- Follow noise & time restrictions
- Avoid illegal structural works
This saves you from unnecessary conflict with JMB.
✅ DO: Inform Your Neighbours (Optional but Wise)
A simple heads‑up to your neighbours helps:
- Reduce complaints
- Maintain good relationships
- Avoid sudden reports to management
A considerate homeowner often faces fewer issues during renovation.
❌ DON’T: Start Renovation Before Approval
This is the most common mistake.
Even if:
- The contractor is ready
- Materials are delivered
- You’re in a hurry
Starting work before approval can result in:
- Immediate stop‑work notice
- Loss of renovation deposit
- Requirement to undo completed work
❌ DON’T: Hack Structural Walls Without Permission
Most condos strictly prohibit:
- Hacking load‑bearing walls
- Altering beams or columns
- Modifying slab or floor structure
These works affect building safety, not just your unit.
Unauthorized hacking may lead to:
- Legal action
- Mandatory reinstatement
- Serious safety risks
❌ DON’T: Ignore Renovation Working Hours
Common condo renovation hours are:
- Weekdays: 9am–5pm
- Saturdays: limited hours
- Sundays & public holidays: usually prohibited
Working outside approved hours can result in:
- Complaints
- Fines
- Blacklisting of your contractor
❌ DON’T: Damage Common Property
Common areas include:
- Corridors
- Lifts
- Lift lobbies
- Staircases
Your contractor must:
- Cover floors and walls
- Use service lifts
- Clean up daily
Any damage may be deducted from your renovation deposit.
❌ DON’T: Dispose Renovation Waste Improperly
Renovation debris should:
- Be removed by the contractor
- Follow building disposal rules
- Never be dumped in common bins
Improper disposal may cause:
- Complaints
- Additional charges
- Penalties from management
⭐ Extra Tips to Speed Up JMB Approval
✔ Submit clear and simple renovation scope
✔ Avoid proposing risky structural changes
✔ Use contractors familiar with the building
✔ Communicate politely with management
✔ Follow up professionally (not aggressively)
⭐ Final Thoughts: JMB Is Not Your Enemy
Many homeowners see JMB as an obstacle—but in reality, their role is to:
- Protect the building structure
- Ensure safety of all residents
- Maintain property value
When you respect the rules and submit proper documentation, condo renovation can be smooth and stress‑free.
Plan first. Get approval. Renovate later.
That’s the safest way to renovate a condo.