Home renovation can be an exciting project. However, there are rules and regulations imposed in starting a renovation project. There are guidelines that we have to follow from the start till the end of each renovation project. In this article, we will discuss on how to obtain a renovation permit before starting your renovation project.

Why do I need a permit?

In short, a renovation permit will provide evidence of where you’re allowed to do said work and in return will save you trouble with other external factors (neighbours, authorities, etc)

Chances are if you do not obtain a renovation permit, your Local Authority will have the right to issue a summon or worse, completely tear down the renovation work you’re doing.

You will also need to ensure that you are not doing renovation works at premises beyond your unit. For example, it is illegal to perform any renovation works on public roads as it belongs to the local authority.

Renovation Which Required Permit

The Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974 (Act 133) stated that all building works are required to have written consent from the Local Authority.

According to ‘Garis Panduan Prosedur Pengeluaran Permit Kerja Ubahsuai’ by KKR. In summary, renovation works that significantly change your current property will require you to apply for a renovation permit. However, it is best to consult with the Local Authority regarding renovation permits.

Steps to Apply for Renovation Permit

Now that we know a little bit more about renovation permits in Malaysia, let’s take a look at how to apply for a renovation permit.

If you live in a stratified property, you should first consult your Joint Management Body (JMB) or Management Corporation (MC) and obtain their approval. If you live on landed property, you will need to pay a visit to the local authority.

Renovation permit is usually handled by the Department of Building Control (Jabatan Kawalan Bangunan) of each Local Authority. For example, if you wish you renovate a property in Damansara, you are seeking to pay a visit to Majlis Perbandaran Petaling Jaya (MBPJ)

 

Documents to Submit

As each Local Authority has different requirements in terms of submission, the usual documents needed to submit are as follows:

  • Copy of IC
  • Latest paid Quit Rent (Cukai Tanah)
  • Latest paid Assessment Rent (Cukai Taksiran)
  • Copy of Title
  • Copy of Sales & Purchase Agreement
  • Copy of CCC
  • Layout Plan of your property

These days your local authorities will get you to download the necessary forms and checklist through their websites. Here are some links to some of the local authorities to ensure that you do not have to make round trips to the local authorities

MBPJ: http://www.mbpj.gov.my/en/node/1344

DBKL: https://www.dbkl.gov.my/en/jabatan-kawalan-bangunan/

MBSJ: https://www.dbkl.gov.my/en/jabatan-kawalan-bangunan/

MBI: https://www.mbi.gov.my/en/mbi/resources/download-forms/building-department

Updates on 06 Feb 2025
In 2022, Malaysia made significant strides in improving its renovation permit application process. Key changes included reducing the approval time from a lengthy 390 days to just 90 days, ensuring a more efficient experience for applicants. Additionally, minor renovation works, such as installing partitions or small non-structural modifications, no longer required the appointment of a Principal Submitting Person (PSP), such as an architect or engineer. This change allowed building owners and tenants to directly submit applications to local authorities, reducing both the complexity and costs involved. These reforms were welcomed as a step towards streamlining administrative processes and supporting property owners, particularly those undertaking projects related to home interior design in Malaysia.

By 2025, the renovation permit process in Malaysia remains consistent with the reforms introduced in 2022. The streamlined approval timeline of 90 days continues to be a hallmark of efficiency. The simplified application process for minor renovations, which does not require the involvement of a PSP, is still in place, maintaining the reduced costs and effort for applicants. These policies have stood the test of time, providing consistent support for property owners and encouraging development while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.