Malaysian homeowners are feeling the strain of constant home maintenance issues, as a new nationwide survey by Nippon Paint in collaboration with the Malaysian Institute of Property & Facility Managers (MIPFM) reveals how recurring repair problems are draining families both emotionally and financially. Despite investing heavily in home repairs, many households say the fixes rarely last — leaving them trapped in a costly and frustrating cycle of maintenance.
The study found that over 87% of homeowners have experienced waterproofing issues, with 65% reporting them within the past two years. Among the most common problems are damp walls (59%), visible leaks (56%), and cracks on ceilings or walls (43%), particularly in critical areas such as roofs and bathrooms. These recurring issues not only compromise safety and comfort but also reduce long-term property value. Alarmingly, despite spending between RM20 and RM99 per square foot on repairs, only 45% of respondents said the issues were fully resolved by professional services — highlighting an urgent need for higher industry standards and quality control.
Emotionally, the impact on homeowners is profound. Over 57% of respondents admitted to feeling anxious or worried about their homes, while others reported frustration (51%), stress (35%), and even embarrassment (26%) when hosting guests. “Homeowners want peace of mind, but recurring issues are robbing them of that security,” said Haji Ishak bin Ismail, President of MIPFM. He added that the collaboration with Nippon Paint aims to raise awareness and accountability across the home maintenance industry to deliver more dependable and lasting solutions.
Despite widespread awareness of waterproofing as a key part of home care, nearly one in three homeowners (29%) remain unclear about its importance. This gap in understanding means that problems often go untreated until they become severe — leading to higher costs and deeper frustration. The survey also revealed that even professional repairs are not always reliable, with many homeowners reporting only partial or temporary improvements.
When asked what they value most in repair services, homeowners prioritized quality materials and workmanship (63.4%), long-term warranties (58%), transparent pricing (55%), and experienced applicators (54%) over affordability. These findings show that Malaysians are not merely looking for quick fixes, but rather peace of mind through lasting, accountable solutions.
In response, Nippon Paint Malaysia’s General Manager, Mr. Tay Sze Tuck, emphasized the company’s commitment to preventive rather than reactive solutions. “We understand the frustration homeowners feel when issues keep recurring. Proper waterproofing is the first line of defence in protecting a home’s value and comfort. Our goal is to provide durable, easy-to-apply solutions that safeguard families in the long term,” he said. Nippon Paint’s range of waterproofing systems — including NippoSEAL Flex 100 and Flex 200 for slab and flat roofs, NippoCEM Standard 701 and Flex 901 for wet areas like bathrooms and balconies, and no-hacking options such as NippoSEAL Spartic Clear and Anti-Leak Waterproof Clear — reflects this preventive philosophy.
Ultimately, the MIPFM–Nippon Paint survey serves as a wake-up call for homeowners, contractors, and policymakers alike. It underscores the importance of preventive maintenance, professional accountability, and public awareness to ensure that Malaysian families can enjoy safe, lasting, and stress-free homes for years to come.
For more information on Nippon Paint’s waterproofing solutions, visit www.nipponpaint.com.my.
