Why 35% of Applications Face Issues
More than one-third of HDB renovation permit applications face rejection or require resubmission, causing delays averaging 2-3 weeks. Understanding common rejection reasons helps ensure first-time approval.
A rejected application isn't just an administrative hurdle—it's an early warning sign about your contractor's competence. If they can't handle documentation correctly, how will they manage the actual renovation?
Top 15 Rejection Reasons
Missing Co-owner Signatures
Very CommonAcknowledgement form lacks signatures from one or more legal co-owners of the flat.
How to Avoid: Obtain signatures from ALL co-owners before submission. Check property title for all names.
Proposing Prohibited Works
CommonApplication includes works that are strictly forbidden, such as hacking structural walls or ceiling plastering.
How to Avoid: Review prohibited works list carefully. When in doubt, consult HDB before submission.
BTO 3-Year Violation
Very CommonAttempting bathroom/toilet hacking within the 3-year moratorium period for new BTO flats.
How to Avoid: Check your block completion date. Wait until after 3-year period or modify renovation plans.
Incorrect Floor Plans
CommonUsing unofficial, outdated, or incorrectly marked floor plans.
How to Avoid: Purchase official floor plans from HDB for S$5. Use correct color coding system.
Non-Compliant Window Designs
CommonProposed windows don't match HDB's approved design scheme for the building.
How to Avoid: Check with Town Council for approved window specifications. Use only approved designs.
Expired Contractor Registration
RareContractor's DRC registration has lapsed or been suspended.
How to Avoid: Verify contractor's active status on HDB portal before engagement.
Missing PE Endorsement
CommonComplex structural works submitted without required Professional Engineer certification.
How to Avoid: Engage a PE for any non-standard structural alterations. Include all technical drawings.
Exceeding Floor Loading Limits
CommonProposed floor finishes exceed 50mm thickness limit or 150kg/sqm loading.
How to Avoid: Calculate total floor thickness including screed. Use lighter materials if needed.
Fire Safety Violations
CommonNon-fire-rated door proposed for fire escape routes or improper corridor obstruction.
How to Avoid: Use certified half-hour fire-rated doors for main entrances facing common areas.
Incomplete Documentation
Very CommonMissing required supporting documents or partially filled forms.
How to Avoid: Use a comprehensive checklist. Review all documents before submission.
Balcony Enclosure Without Approval
RareAttempting to enclose balcony without SCDF fire safety clearance.
How to Avoid: Engage PE to submit plans to SCDF first. Only proceed after receiving clearance.
Electrical Overload
CommonProposing high-load electrical works without considering building's capacity.
How to Avoid: For older flats with 30A mains, apply for electrical upgrade permit first.
Bathroom Extension Violations
RareExtending bathroom beyond allowed 600mm or 0.6sqm limit.
How to Avoid: Keep extensions within strict limits. Consider alternative layouts.
Contractor's Poor Track Record
RareContractor has excessive demerit points or recent violations.
How to Avoid: Check contractor's demerit points history. Avoid those near 24-point suspension threshold.
Wall Thickness Violations
CommonWall finishes exceed 25mm total thickness limit.
How to Avoid: Calculate total thickness including plaster and tiles. Adjust materials if needed.
Pre-Submission Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to review your application before submission:
Document Checklist
0 of 12 completedDocumentation
Compliance
Technical
Specialist
Safety
Contractor
What to Do If Rejected
If your application is rejected, don't panic. Most rejections can be resolved quickly with the right approach:
- Review the rejection letter carefully for specific reasons
- Address ALL stated issues, not just the major ones
- Gather any additional documents requested
- Resubmit within 7 days to maintain your queue position
- Consider engaging a more experienced contractor if multiple rejections occur
- Contact HDB directly for clarification if rejection reasons are unclear
Multiple Rejections Red Flag
If your application is rejected more than twice, seriously consider changing contractors. This indicates fundamental issues with their knowledge or diligence that could manifest as bigger problems during actual renovation.