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Phase 5 of 8
HDB Permits & Regulations
Navigate HDB's strict guidelines. Know what you can and cannot do to avoid costly mistakes.
Duration:1 week
HDB has strict guidelines to ensure structural integrity, fire safety, and harmonious living. Violating these can result in stop-work orders, fines, and forcing you to restore original conditions at your cost. Knowledge here saves money and stress.
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Permit Processing
3-7 days
Plan accordingly
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Permit Cost
S$30
Standard application
⚠️
Fine Range
S$200-5,000
For violations
1
Understanding HDB Renovation Guidelines
HDB guidelines aren't suggestions - they're legal requirements. Understanding them prevents costly mistakes and legal issues.
Why Guidelines Exist
- Structural Safety: Prevent building collapse
- Fire Safety: Maintain escape routes
- Noise Control: Peaceful living environment
- Uniformity: Maintain estate appearance
- Services Protection: Prevent utility disruptions
Consequences of Violations
- Immediate stop-work order
- Fines from S$200 to S$5,000
- Forced restoration at your cost
- Legal action for serious breaches
- Difficulty selling flat in future
2
Permits Required vs Not Required
Knowing what needs permits saves time and prevents violations.
Permit REQUIRED (via HDB InfoWEB)
- Hacking of walls - Any wall removal
- Relocation of toilets/kitchens - Affecting plumbing
- Bay window installation - Approved designs only
- Structural alterations - Beams, columns
- Storage heater installation - Not instant heaters
- Full bathroom overlay - Affecting waterproofing
Permit NOT Required (But Must Follow Guidelines)
- Painting works
- Basic flooring installation
- Carpentry and built-in furniture
- Aircon installation (ledge/bracket requirements)
- Minor electrical works
- Replacement of sanitary fittings
3
Permit Application Process
The application is straightforward if you're prepared. Here's the step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Login to HDB InfoWEB
- Use SingPass for authentication
- Navigate to e-Services > Renovation
- Select your flat address
Step 2: Submit Application
- Upload floor plan with proposed changes (PDF format)
- Mark all walls to be hacked in red
- Indicate type of works clearly
- Provide contractor details (must be HDB registered)
Step 3: Payment
- S$30 standard application fee
- PayNow or credit card accepted
- Keep receipt for records
Step 4: Await Approval
- Usually 3-7 working days
- Check email for updates
- May receive queries requiring clarification
Step 5: Receive Permit
- Download and print permit
- Display at renovation site
- Valid for 3 months
- Can extend if needed (additional fee)
4
Detailed Do's and Don'ts
These rules are non-negotiable. Violating them leads to enforcement action.
STRUCTURAL WORKS
✅ CAN DO:
- Remove non-structural walls (check plan)
- Install false ceiling (minimum 2.4m height)
- Overlay flooring (maximum 50mm thick)
- Build partition walls (with permit)
❌ CANNOT DO:
- Hack structural walls/columns/beams
- Alter bomb shelter in ANY way
- Exceed floor loading (150kg/sqm)
- Reduce ceiling height below 2.4m
WINDOWS & FACADES
✅ CAN DO:
- Install invisible grilles
- Add non-reflective window films
- Install approved bay window designs
- Change internal window handles
❌ CANNOT DO:
- Change window frame color
- Install external awnings/shades
- Add protruding grilles
- Block service yard openings
- Alter facade appearance
Wet Areas & Waterproofing
✅ CAN DO:
- Waterproof bathroom floors properly
- Install bathroom accessories
- Change sanitary fittings
- Add bathroom storage
❌ CANNOT DO:
- Relocate bathrooms without approval
- Remove original floor traps
- Compromise waterproofing membrane
- Install bathtub in common toilet (usually)
Electrical & Aircon Works
✅ CAN DO:
- Add power points (licensed electrician)
- Install ceiling fans
- Upgrade DB box to 40amp
- Install aircon on designated ledges
❌ CANNOT DO:
- Exceed 40amp total loading
- Bypass safety devices
- DIY electrical DB work
- Install aircon beyond ledge capacity
5
Penalties for Non-Compliance
HDB takes violations seriously. Here's what you risk by not following rules.
Common Violations and Penalties
- No permit for required works: Warning + Stop Work, then S$500-1,000 fine
- Unauthorized structural changes: S$500 fine + restoration cost
- Illegal window works: S$200 fine + removal
- Working outside permitted hours: Warning, then S$300-500 fine
- Damage to common property: Repair cost + possible fine
Working Hours Regulations
Permitted Renovation Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
- Sunday & Public Holidays: NO WORK ALLOWED
Noisy Works (Hacking, Drilling):
- Weekdays only: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Maximum 3 hours continuous
- Not allowed on weekends
Good Neighbor Practices
- Inform neighbors 3 days before start
- Display permit and schedule visibly
- Cover common areas during material transport
- Daily cleanup of corridors
- Provide contractor contact for complaints
Permit Application Checklist
Compliance Checklist
Remember These Key Points
- Always apply for permits 1 week before starting work
- Never hack structural walls - check plans carefully
- Bomb shelter cannot be modified in any way
- Working hours are strictly enforced - inform your contractor
- Display permit visibly to avoid complaints
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting work before permit approval
- Hacking walls without checking if structural
- Modifying bomb shelter for storage
- Working outside permitted hours
- Changing window frames or external appearance
Pro Tips
- Apply for permit immediately after contractor selection
- Take photos of original condition before starting
- Keep all approval documents for flat sale later
- Join estate WhatsApp groups to coordinate noisy works
- Consider neighbors' exam periods when scheduling hacking