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Hi,

This is a good question because smart-home devices can sometimes create disputes between buyers and sellers, especially when it is unclear what should remain with the property.

Generally, I would distinguish between fixtures that form part of the property and removable personal devices.

For example:

1. **Smart switches, built-in lighting controls and motorised curtain systems:** These are usually treated as fixtures if permanently installed, unless both parties agree otherwise.

2. **Smart locks and digital doorbells:** These should be specifically discussed because they may be integrated into the property's security system.

3. **Smart speakers, portable cameras, robot vacuum cleaners and standalone hubs:** These are generally personal devices that sellers can take with them, unless they have agreed to include them.

4. **Smart air-conditioning controllers and automated blinds:** Whether these should remain depends on how they are installed and what was agreed during the sale.

My advice is to prepare a clear inventory list stating what will remain and what will be removed, preferably before the Option to Purchase is exercised.

There is also an important security consideration. For devices that remain, the seller should remove personal accounts, reset access credentials and ensure that the buyer can take over control of the system.

May I know whether you are selling an HDB flat, condominium or landed property?

Also, have you already engaged an agent to handle your sale? If so, has your agent helped prepare an inventory list and advised you on which fixtures should remain?

This is something an experienced seller's agent should be guiding you through to avoid unnecessary disagreements during the final inspection or handover.

If you could share which smart-home devices you have installed, I would be happy to provide a more specific assessment.

Geryl Lim
 9278 7772  Read More

Hi, make a device-by-device list before agreeing the sale: what stays, what goes, and what is needed for the remaining system to function. Do not decide only by whether a device can physically be unplugged; installation and the sale terms can matter. Have your agent or conveyancing lawyer clarify any disputed fixtures.

For anything staying, record the model, included hubs/remotes and any subscription or internet dependency. Agree a handover demonstration so the buyer knows what works.

Before handing over cameras, locks or connected devices, follow the manufacturer’s transfer/reset process, remove your personal accounts and recordings, and arrange fresh buyer access. Never hand over your personal email or account password. Use a qualified installer if removal affects wiring or security. Which devices have you installed?

Silas Tan | Huttons | TRIBE
Free property guides and calculators: https://tribesg.com Read More

**In Singapore, the rule of thumb for smart home devices comes down to "fixtures vs. chattels" (movable items) and account handover practicality.** Leaving hardwired smart infrastructure boosts buyer appeal, while taking personal, account-linked gadgets avoids privacy risks and replacement costs.

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### 1. Leave Behind (Hardwired Fixtures & Structural Systems)

Under Singapore property law, items permanently affixed to walls, ceilings, or doors generally form part of the property unless explicitly excluded in your Option to Purchase (OTP):

* **Smart Digital Door Locks & Gate Locks:** Removing these leaves visible drill holes and exposes the mortise lock, violating handover standards. Factory-reset the lock, clear your fingerprints/PINs, and hand over physical override keys and RFID cards.
* **Smart Wall Switches, Dimmers & Smart Lighting:** Hardwired neutral/no-neutral wall switches, smart ceiling fans, and recessed downlights should remain so the home stays functional for daily living.
* **Motorized Smart Curtains / Blinds & Built-In IR Controllers:** Custom-fitted tracks and concealed wiring add strong showroom appeal and are rarely sized properly for your next home anyway.
* **Smart Water Heaters / Aircon Wi-Fi Modules:** Keep integrated smart modules with the appliances they control.

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### 2. Take With You (Movable, Personal & Account-Bound Devices)

Unplug and pack portable devices that link to your personal cloud accounts, privacy, or daily routines:

* **Smart Speakers, Displays & Hubs:** Google Nest, Amazon Echo, Apple HomePod, and standalone Zigbee/Matter hubs (e.g., Aqara or Homey hubs).
* **Indoor Security Cameras & Baby Monitors:** Always remove personal indoor cameras for privacy and account security.
* **Smart Plugs, Portable Lamps & Robot Vacuums:** Easy to unplug, re-pair, and reuse immediately in your next home.
* **Mesh Wi-Fi Routers:** Your broadband equipment and router belong to you.

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### 3. Protect Yourself Before Signing the OTP

* **List Exclusions & Inclusions Clearly:** If you plan to take a high-value smart thermostat, video doorbell, or designer smart chandelier, exclude it in writing in the OTP *before* the buyer signs—and replace it with a standard working switch or bulb before handover.
* **Factory Reset Everything:** Unbind all remaining smart locks, switches, and curtain motors from your mobile apps before legal completion so the buyer can pair them cleanly.

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Gan Eng Joo Onassis 颜荣裕, REALTOR®

MSc BIT (Middlesex, UK); BBA (UniSA)

CEA Reg No: R021244C | Mobile: (+65) 8889 9918 

Email: onassis@sgagent.com

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