If you’re planning to renovate your HDB flat in 2025, the list of rules, permits, and restrictions can feel overwhelming. Questions like, “Do I need a permit for wall hacking?” or “What are the allowable works in an HDB flat?” might leave you feeling stuck before you even start.

At MRD, we understand these concerns and aim to simplify the process, ensuring a stress-free renovation experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to navigate the rules and create the home you’ve always wanted.

Why Are HDB Renovation Guidelines Important?

The Housing and Development Board (HDB) imposes renovation rules for a reason. They aim to maintain the structural safety of flats, ensure uniformity across estates, and preserve the living quality for all residents.

The Benefits of Following HDB Rules:

1. Safety First: Protecting the Building’s Stability

One of the most important benefits of adhering to HDB’s renovation guidelines is ensuring the safety of your home and its occupants. HDB regulations are designed to prevent renovations that could compromise the structural integrity of the building. For example, making unauthorized changes to load-bearing walls, shifting essential plumbing, or altering the electrical systems can cause long-term damage not only to your unit but also to the building as a whole. By following the guidelines, you minimize the risk of accidents or structural failure, which could have severe consequences for both your safety and the safety of your neighbors.

Moreover, these safety measures aren’t just for your home but also protect the broader HDB community. Without the regulations in place, individual renovations could potentially weaken the overall framework of the building, leading to risks that extend far beyond your unit. Ensuring that your renovation complies with these standards offers peace of mind, knowing that you are contributing to the stability of the entire building.

2. No Legal Hassle: Avoiding Fines and Project Delays

Not adhering to HDB’s renovation rules can lead to significant legal troubles. Non-compliance with the renovation guidelines can result in hefty fines, project halts, or even forced reversals of work already completed. Renovation permits are required for certain types of work, and failing to obtain these permits can lead to costly consequences. Even if you’ve started your renovation without a proper permit, you may be forced to stop and undo your work, resulting in wasted time and money.

Additionally, the approval process can take several weeks, and starting work without the necessary permissions can delay your entire renovation project. This not only impacts your timeline but could also affect your daily life, as you may need to postpone plans or make alternative living arrangements. Following the rules ensures a smooth, legal process, preventing potential legal setbacks that could otherwise delay your renovation or lead to costly consequences.

3. Higher Resale Value: Ensuring Market-Friendly Renovations

A well-renovated HDB flat that follows the required guidelines is more likely to maintain its value on the resale market. Prospective buyers are often wary of purchasing a unit that has undergone unauthorized or non-compliant renovations, as these may create future complications or legal issues. Proper renovations ensure that your flat remains attractive and market-friendly, providing assurance to future buyers that the property is up to code and safe for living.

In addition, specific renovations can increase the overall appeal of your flat. For instance, carefully designed, authorized renovations that enhance the living experience—such as optimizing space, upgrading fixtures, or improving energy efficiency—can make the property more attractive to potential buyers, raising its market value. Following HDB’s rules will not only help you enjoy a safer and smoother renovation process but also ensure that your property remains in good standing when it comes time to sell.

Types of Renovation Permits You May Need

Renovations in HDB flats often require permits to ensure compliance with Singapore’s regulations. Here’s a breakdown:

General Renovation Permit

• Covers basic works like tiling, painting, and carpentry.
• Usually handled by your contractor.
• Cost: Included in most renovation packages.

Special Renovation Permit

• Needed for works involving hacking, plumbing, or structural changes.
• Must be approved before work begins.
• Cost: SGD 100–200 depending on the scope.

Permit Type	Examples of Covered Works	Estimated Approval Time
General Renovation Permit	Painting, tiling, installing fixtures	1–2 weeks
Special Renovation Permit	Hacking non-load-bearing walls, plumbing	2–4 weeks

What Can and Can’t Be Done in Your HDB Renovation?

Knowing what’s allowed is crucial to avoid complications during your renovation.

Permitted Works

• Installing built-in carpentry like wardrobes and kitchen cabinets.
• Replacing floor tiles or wall finishes.
• Upgrading electrical outlets (with a licensed contractor).

Restricted Works

• Modifying or hacking structural walls.
• Altering the bomb shelter in any way.
• External changes, such as enclosing balconies or replacing windows with unapproved designs.

Tip: Always consult your contractor to confirm compliance with the latest HDB rules.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an HDB Renovation Permit

1. Hire an HDB-Licensed Contractor

The first step in applying for an HDB renovation permit is to engage a contractor who is registered and licensed by HDB. It’s crucial to hire a contractor who is familiar with HDB guidelines and regulations. Licensed contractors are well-versed in the specific requirements for renovations within HDB flats, ensuring that the work complies with safety and structural standards. Moreover, these contractors can help you with the permit application process, saving you time and ensuring everything is done correctly. Choosing a licensed contractor ensures that you’re starting off on the right foot and prevents potential complications down the line.

2. Submit Detailed Renovation Plans

Once you have a licensed contractor, the next step is to submit a detailed renovation plan to HDB for approval. This plan should include all the specifics of your intended renovation, such as any structural changes, electrical work, plumbing upgrades, or alterations to walls. For major works like hacking walls or changing plumbing, you’ll need to provide precise architectural drawings and specifications. These drawings should clearly illustrate the scope of the renovation and how it will affect the existing layout. Your contractor will assist in preparing these documents to ensure that they meet all HDB requirements.

3. Wait for Approval

After submitting your renovation plans, you must wait for approval from HDB. The approval timeline can vary depending on the nature of the work. For minor renovations such as painting, tiling, or installing new fixtures, permits are typically processed and approved quickly. However, for more complex projects like hacking walls, structural work, or plumbing upgrades, the approval process can take up to 4 weeks. During this time, HDB will assess whether the renovation complies with building regulations and safety standards. It’s important to be patient and avoid starting any work until you receive the necessary approval to ensure that your renovation is fully compliant.

4. Begin Renovations

Once you have received the approved renovation permit, you can begin your renovation work. It is essential that you wait until the permit is granted before starting any work on the property. Starting work without an official permit can lead to fines, delays, and even the reversal of the renovation work. With the permit in hand, your contractor can proceed with the planned renovations, confident that the project is fully compliant with HDB regulations. Keep in mind that there may still be inspections throughout the renovation process to ensure adherence to the approved plans, so it’s important to maintain clear communication with your contractor and HDB to avoid any issues.

Budgeting for Your HDB Renovation

A clear budget ensures you don’t overspend. Here’s a breakdown of estimated costs for common renovation items:

Renovation Item	Estimated Cost (SGD)
Kitchen Renovation	8,000–20,000
Bathroom Renovation	5,000–12,000
Flooring Replacement	4,000–10,000
Built-In Carpentry	6,000–15,000
Lighting and Electrical	2,000–6,000

Differences Between HDB and Private Property Renovations

HDB renovations often differ from private property renovations due to stricter guidelines.

Key Differences:

1. Structural Restrictions: HDB flats have more limitations, especially regarding hacking and structural changes.
2. Approval Processes: HDB renovations require permits, while private property owners may have more flexibility.
3. Cost Variances: HDB renovations are typically more affordable due to standardisation, but the permit process can add to timelines.

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Renovation

• Plan Ahead: Start your permit application early to avoid delays.
• Communicate Regularly: Stay in constant contact with your contractor to ensure work proceeds smoothly.
• Stick to the Rules: Avoid shortcuts, as non-compliance can result in hefty fines or project reversals.
• Budget for Unexpected Costs: Set aside an additional 10–15% of your budget for unforeseen expenses.

Common Renovation Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Permit Process
   Renovating without a permit can lead to legal penalties and costly project delays.
2. Hiring Unapproved Contractors
   Only HDB-approved contractors understand the regulations and are authorised to work on flats.
3. Ignoring Your Budget
   Always set a realistic budget and prioritise essential works to avoid overspending.

MRD: Your Trusted Renovation Partner

At MRD, we make HDB renovations stress-free by offering comprehensive renovation services.

From securing permits to delivering impeccable results, we’re here to handle every detail.

Ready to transform your HDB flat? Let’s build your dream home together.