The HDB Permit Application Journey
The HDB renovation permit application is a formal, structured process with distinct phases. While the administrative submission is performed by your contractor, as the homeowner, you bear ultimate legal responsibility for ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Understanding each step of the process helps you work effectively with your contractor and avoid delays that could push back your renovation timeline by weeks.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Engage HDB-Registered Contractor
1-2 daysYour first and most critical step is engaging a contractor currently listed in HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC). Only DRC-registered contractors can submit permit applications.
Required Documents:
- Contractor's DRC registration number
- Valid business registration
Tip: Verify contractor status on HDB InfoWEB before signing any agreement. Check their demerit points history.
Prepare Floor Plans
2-3 daysObtain scaled floor plans showing all proposed works. Use HDB's color-coding system: RED for walls to demolish, BLUE for new walls, YELLOW for walls demolished and rebuilt in same location.
Required Documents:
- Official HDB floor plan (S$5 from HDB)
- Marked-up renovation plans
Tip: Purchase official floor plans from HDB e-Service to ensure accuracy. Hand-drawn plans will be rejected.
Complete Acknowledgement Form
1 dayAll legal co-owners must sign the acknowledgement form authorizing the contractor to submit the application. This is a critical legal document establishing the contractor-owner relationship.
Required Documents:
- Signed acknowledgement form from ALL owners
- NRIC copies of all owners
Tip: Ensure ALL co-owners sign. Missing signatures are a common rejection reason.
Contractor Submits via APEX
Same dayYour contractor submits the complete application package through HDB's Application for Renovation Permit via Electronic Transaction (APEX) system.
Required Documents:
- All compiled documents
- Digital submission via APEX
Tip: You'll receive an SMS notification once submitted. If you don't receive it within 24 hours, follow up with your contractor.
HDB Review Process
1-3 weeksHDB reviews your application for compliance with regulations. Complex works may require consultation with BCA or SCDF, extending the timeline.
Tip: Monitor status via 'My HDBPage' using Singpass. Check weekly for any requests for additional information.
Receive Approval
Immediate upon approvalUpon approval, HDB issues the renovation permit with specific validity periods: 3 months for BTO flats, 1 month for resale flats.
Required Documents:
- Official HDB permit
- Approved plans
- Terms and conditions
Tip: Review permit conditions carefully. Some approvals come with specific requirements you must follow.
Required Documentation Checklist
Document Checklist
0 of 7 completedPlans
Legal
Contractor
Technical
Specialist
Processing Timeline
Application Timeline
Document Preparation
3-5 daysGather all required documents and complete forms
Submission
1 dayContractor submits via APEX system
Initial Review
3-5 daysHDB conducts preliminary compliance check
Technical Assessment
5-10 daysDetailed review of structural and safety aspects
Final Approval
2-3 daysPermit issued with conditions
Expediting Your Application
While HDB doesn't offer an official express service, you can minimize processing time by ensuring your application is complete and accurate from the start.
- Submit during off-peak periods (avoid year-end and post-Chinese New Year)
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate before submission
- Respond to HDB queries within 24 hours
- Engage experienced contractors familiar with the process
- Consider simpler renovation designs that require less review