Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers about what we do, what we do not do, and how a piling engineering appointment works.
Is piling.sg a piling contractor?
No. piling.sg provides engineering services: pile design, BCA submission, installation supervision and testing coordination. Piles are installed by the piling contractor appointed for your project, and load and integrity tests are carried out by the appointed testing provider. We coordinate with them within our written scope.
What information do you need to start?
The site address, the site investigation (soil) report if one exists, architectural or structural layouts, expected column or wall loads, details of neighbouring buildings and services, and your target programme. If there is no site investigation yet, we can advise on what is needed and coordinate with a site investigation contractor or geotechnical consultant.
Can you guarantee BCA approval or an approval date?
No. Approval is decided by BCA after its own review, and the time taken depends on the project, the completeness of the submission and any comments raised. We prepare and coordinate the submission and respond to BCA comments within our agreed scope.
Do you carry out pile load tests yourselves?
No. Tests such as static load tests, high-strain dynamic tests and integrity tests are carried out by competent testing providers appointed for the project. We help define the testing programme, coordinate the providers and review the test records and reports within our scope.
What is a Qualified Piling Professional (QPP)?
QPP is an individual professional credential. Er. Zheng Zhijian is accredited as a QPP (SAC CT32, Reg. No. QPP-0042) after an assessment organised by IES with support from BCA and SAC. It does not replace any statutory appointment, Professional Engineer registration, BCA submission requirement or contractor registration needed on a project.
Which pile type suits a landed house rebuild?
It depends on the soil conditions, loads, site access, headroom, noise and vibration limits, and how close the neighbours are. Bored piles, jack-in piles and micropiles are common choices on landed plots. The recommendation is made after reviewing the site investigation data and site constraints.
Who is responsible for the quality of the piling works?
The piling contractor remains responsible for its means and methods, workmanship, safety and execution, unless a separate written appointment says otherwise. Supervision and technical monitoring check the works against the approved design and records within the agreed scope; they do not take over the contractor’s responsibilities.
Can you review a pile design prepared by someone else?
Yes, an independent design or technical review can be arranged, subject to a written appointment and a conflict check.
How are fees set?
Fees are quoted per project after we understand the site, the design stage and the services you need. The scope, deliverables, statutory roles and fee are confirmed in a written appointment before work starts.
These answers are general information. Your project's scope and requirements are confirmed in a written appointment.
Have a question that is not listed?
Send us a short description of your project and we will reply.