Guide to Renovation Permits for Landed Houses in Malaysia: Strata vs. Individual Title

Renovating your home can be an exciting process — whether you're upgrading your kitchen, expanding your living space, or improving overall aesthetics. But before the hammers start swinging, it's important to understand whether you need a renovation permit, especially when dealing with different types of property ownership: strata title vs. individual title.

Types of Landed Property Titles in Malaysia

1. Individual Title

   • Refers to properties such as terrace houses, semi-detached homes, or bungalows where the owner holds full ownership of both the building and the land.

2. Strata Title

   • Applies to properties in a gated and guarded community with shared facilities (e.g., townhouses, cluster homes, or landed homes in a strata development). Ownership is shared over common areas and governed by a Management Corporation (MC) or Joint Management Body (JMB).

When Do You Need a Renovation Permit?

Renovation permits are typically required when the works involve:

• Structural changes (e.g., extending the kitchen, adding floors or rooms)

• Demolition of walls or columns

• Altering building layout that affects safety or usage

• Changes that affect building façade

• Plumbing or electrical system upgrades

• Works that impact shared facilities (for strata properties)

Minor renovations such as painting, installing cabinets, or changing floor tiles inside the house usually do not require a permit.

Additional Conditions for Strata-Titled Properties

If your home is under a strata title, you must:

• Get written approval from the Management Corporation (MC) or Joint Management Body (JMB) before applying for a permit

• Comply with the House Rules (e.g., renovation hours, noise restrictions, deposit payment)

• Submit renovation plans to the MC/JMB for review

Failure to obtain approval may result in fines, renovation work stoppages, or legal action.