Bukit Batok resident claims solar panels installed on roof caused wall cracks, ceiling leaks

A woman complained that solar panels installed on her flat's roof last year caused cracks in her walls and a leaky kitchen ceiling.

Ms Zhu, 58, who lives in a top-floor unit at Block 244 Bukit Batok East Avenue 5, told Shin Min Daily News that she has to place buckets on her kitchen floor to catch rainwater dripping from the ceiling, disrupting her daily life.

"When workers drilled holes in the roof to install the solar panels last year, the whole house shook," she said.

"Later, the walls started cracking, and the ceiling started leaking. I don't know if it's related, though."

She added that she's worried about ceiling mould staining her laundry.

Cracks are also visible in her bedroom wall, with dust occasionally falling from the gap.

Ms Zhu also pointed out that paint is peeling from her walls, which she believes is due to moisture from the rooftop water tank. She's repainted several times, but the problem keeps coming back.

She raised the issues with the town council, but was told that problems within her unit would be referred to the Housing Development Board (HDB).

"HDB replied and said that if the rooftop solar panels and water tanks caused the problem, the town council is responsible," she said.

"Now I don't know who to contact."

Ms Zhu claimed another resident on the same floor experienced similar issues, but gave up complaining after allegedly being told there was no solution.

The Jurong-Clementi Town Council told the Chinese daily that they have been in contact with residents regarding the leaks since last June and are working with contractors to speed up the necessary repairs.

Regarding the peeling paint, the town council said they hadn't received any complaints about this issue, but will assist residents and monitor their feedback closely.