Submitting engineering plans for regulatory approval in Singapore often requires a Professional Engineer (PE) endorsement. While PE submissions are essential for compliance, safety, and project approval, many get rejected or delayed due to preventable mistakes.

Whether you’re a contractor, developer, or project manager, understanding the common reasons for rejection in PE submissions can save time, money, and frustration.

In this blog, we highlight the most frequent issues that lead to failed PE submissions—and how you can avoid them.

What is a PE Submission?

In Singapore, a Professional Engineer (PE) registered with the Professional Engineers Board (PEB) must endorse certain engineering documents before they are submitted to authorities such as BCA, SCDF, NEA, PUB, URA, and LTA.

These submissions may include:

• Structural plans

• M&E designs

• Temporary works (e.g., scaffolding, ERSS)

• Fire safety layouts

• Drainage and sewerage plans

A PE’s endorsement certifies that the work complies with Singapore’s regulatory standards and codes of practice.

Top Reasons PE Submissions Get Rejected

1. Incomplete or Missing Documentation

One of the most common (and avoidable) issues is submitting plans with missing documents, such as:

• Lack of calculations or supporting reports

• Absence of PE stamp or signature

• Missing authority forms (e.g., SCDF Form B, PUB drainage submission checklist)

🛠 How to avoid:
Use a comprehensive PE submission checklist and ensure all documents are signed, stamped, and consistent.

2. Non-Compliance with Regulatory Codes

Submissions that don’t comply with local codes—like SS CP 83 (fire safety), SS 531 (electrical), or BCA guidelines—are usually rejected outright.

🛠 How to avoid:
Engage a PE familiar with the specific code of practice required by each authority (e.g., SCDF vs BCA have different technical focuses).

3. Unclear or Incomplete Engineering Drawings

Authorities will reject submissions with:

• Illegible plans

• Unlabeled drawings

• Missing sections or details

• Conflicting dimensions

🛠 How to avoid:
Ensure drawings are professionally drafted (e.g., in AutoCAD), clearly labeled, and reviewed by the PE before submission.

4. Designs That Compromise Safety or Functionality

If your design fails to meet essential safety, loading, ventilation, or fire suppression standards, the authority will reject it—even if the PE has endorsed it.

🛠 How to avoid:
Have your design peer-reviewed before submission. Choose a PE with domain expertise in the specific field (e.g., structural vs fire safety).

5. Submissions Made to the Wrong Authority or Department

Some projects require approval from multiple agencies. Submitting to the wrong authority—or skipping one—can delay the entire process.

🛠 How to avoid:
Map out all the relevant authority submissions (e.g., BCA + URA + SCDF + PUB for a mezzanine addition), and ensure you’re submitting in the right sequence.

6. Outdated Forms or Guidelines Used

Singapore’s regulatory agencies frequently update submission guidelines. Using old templates or outdated drawings can result in automatic rejection.

🛠 How to avoid:
Check each agency’s website (e.g., BCA, SCDF) for the latest forms and requirements before submission.

7. Inexperienced or Unregistered PE Endorsing the Submission

Only a registered PE in the relevant discipline (e.g., Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical) can legally endorse a submission. If an endorsement is made by a non-qualified individual or across disciplines, it will be rejected.

🛠 How to avoid:
Verify your PE’s registration status and ensure they are certified in the right category for the type of submission.

How to Ensure a Smooth PE Submission

• Work with an experienced engineering consultancy familiar with all relevant authority processes

• Use an internal quality control checklist

• Don’t rush submissions—review everything thoroughly

• Stay updated with changes to BCA, SCDF, and PUB regulations

• Communicate with your PE regularly throughout the project

Need Help with PE Submissions in Singapore?

At AEC Technical Advisory, we specialize in PE Endorsements and regulatory authority submissions for all types of projects—residential, commercial, industrial, and more.

Whether you’re dealing with structural works, fire safety designs, or M&E systems, our team ensures your submissions are complete, compliant, and approved quickly.

👉 Contact us today to get started with a compliant PE submission process that avoids costly delays.