SHAH ALAM: Nearly nine in 10 homeowners surveyed whose defect liability period (DLP) had ended reported waterproofing problems after the period expired, according to a survey developed in collaboration with the Home Buyers Association (HBA) and Nippon Paint Malaysia.

Among affected homeowners, 42.4% spent more than RM5,000 on waterproofing repairs, including 14.2% who incurred costs exceeding RM10,000.

The survey also found that 78.2% required at least two repair attempts or had yet to resolve the problem while 61.1% reported recurring issues or were unsure whether the initial repair had been effective.

Nippon Paint Malaysia general manager Tay Sze Tuck said repeated repairs could become costly when the underlying cause of water ingress was not properly identified. “The priority should therefore be to understand where the water ingress is coming from and why it is happening before deciding on the repair. Addressing only what is visible may provide temporary relief but it may not solve the underlying waterproofing failure,” said Tay.

The findings showed that 76.3% of affected homeowners encountered waterproofing problems immediately or within 12 months after their DLP ended. External walls, bathrooms and balconies or terraces accounted for 77% of the main affected areas, with common symptoms including mould, damp walls, peeling paint and ceiling stains.

HBA honorary secretary-general Datuk Chang Kim Loong said homeowners should identify and document defects early to ensure that repairs address the source of the problem. “When waterproofing problems recur or only become apparent later, homeowners can find themselves dealing with repeated repairs, disruption and high out-of-pocket costs,” he said.

The survey also found that 74.4% of affected homeowners experienced additional problems, including interior damage, mould, electrical risks and structural damage. Meanwhile, 80.4% did not take immediate action when they first noticed signs of waterproofing trouble while 66.5% said they had not been informed or could not recall the waterproofing system used in their homes.

Tay said greater awareness of waterproofing systems, early warning signs and proper diagnosis could help homeowners avoid repeated spending on unresolved defects.

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