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Building and Construction Authority

Universal Design Index (UDi)

The Universal Design Index (UDi) Self Assessment Framework serves as a tool for inclusive design. Developed by the BCA, it guides and evaluates the incorporation of universal design features in building projects. Let's take a closer look at how the UDi can help to shape a more equitable and user-friendly built environment.

Submit UDi Checklist
Last updated 13 March 2026

Understanding the purpose of the Universal Design index (UDi)

The Universal Design index self-assessment framework (UDi) comprises of a checklist of user-friendly features that designers and developers can consider implementing in their projects. Based on the user-friendly features that are provided in the building, the UDi will indicate the level of user-friendliness for each of the four key user groups – persons with disability, elderly persons, families with young children and expectant or nursing mothers.

UDi Rating

The UDi rating indicates how well a building caters to different user groups, based on provisions exceeding the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment:

  • A – Excellent: caters well to all user groups.

  • B – Good: caters well to most user groups.

  • C – Fair: caters to some user groups.

  • D – Basic: provides basic universal design provisions.

UDi from planning to completion

The UDi is integrated into the building plan and TOP (Temporary Occupation Permit) application process. Here's a simplified overview:

1. Design stage

Developers and architects should use the UDi to consider the inclusion of user-friendly features in their project and use the checklist to obtain an indication of how inclusive their project may be.

2. Building Plan application to BCA

Qualified Persons (QPs) are to submit the completed UDi checklist at https://go.gov.sg/bcaudi-sub and attach the acknowledgement of the submitted checklist during their application to BCA for building plan approval.

3. TOP stage

QPs are to update the UDi checklist further to any changes during construction, submit the updated UDi checklist at https://go.gov.sg/bcaudi-sub and attach the acknowledgement of the submitted checklist during their application to BCA for TOP and/or CSC.

Applicability of UDi

The UDi is to be submitted, taking into account the entire building in cases where it comprises of,

  • New building(s) with a total Gross Floor Area (GFA) of more than 500m2; 

  • Additions and alteration (A&A) works to an existing building involving more than 50% of the existing GFA and where the total Gross Floor Area (GFA) is more than 500m2; or

  • A&A works to an existing building involving more than 50% of the total number of storey in the building and where the total Gross Floor Area (GFA) is more than 500m2

For other A&A works not described above, the UDi is to be submitted for the area of A&A works only.

The following projects do not require the submission of UDi,

  • Non-buildings, such as linkways, covered drop-offs, bus stops, pedestrian overhead bridges, underpasses and the like; or

  • Landed residential; or

  • Buildings with total GFA of 500m2 or less.

Universal Design Index checklist

Resources to help

To assist you in navigating the UDi process and understanding the user-friendly features in the UDi checklist, here are range of resources: