Guidelines For HDB Renovation Works in Singapore 2024

The HDB renovation guidelines are meant to give homeowners the details they need to do their own renovations, such as what kind of work needs to be done and how big it will be. These guidelines cover many issues, such as how to get HDB permits, HDB drilling time, HDB renovation application, what kinds of renovations are legal, and what you should keep in mind for safety and to be a good neighbour while you work on your project.  It is important to similarly understand the HDB renovation timing before you start working on your job.

When putting together your renovation team, it's necessary to pick professionals who understand HDB construction time and have experience working with HDB flats. The process of picking an HDB interior design renovation team to help with your renovation may look stressful. You can be sure that your improvements will be safe and up-to-date if you follow our guidelines.

Key Features of HDB Renovation Rules in Singapore

A "renovation work" is simply the entire process of enhancing the house through alterations and additions. Homeowners must hire their own HDB Registered Renovation Contractors to do the allowed Works and pay for all of their fees and costs. Contracts are kept secret between the flat owners and the contractors. It would be up to the two parties involved, the homeowner and contractor, to resolve any disputes regarding the renovation's budget, schedule, or quality on their own.

You must understand the side of the law before you start your HDB renovation works, especially HDB drilling time or renovation timing for your HDB. Homeowners violate the Housing & Development (Renovation Control) Rules by not using an HDB Registered Renovation Contractor, getting an HDB renovation without a permit, or disregarding HDB  renovation guidelines. If the rules are breached and an HDB renovation complaint is filed, such persons might be fined $5,000. In addition to paying the court fine, the unapproved Works must be taken down and put back the way they were.

Your renovation work of some particular nature can only be done with an HDB renovation permit from HDB first. HDB will give the HDB Registered Renovation Contractor a pass for the work before they can start. Any renovations that break HDB renovation noise rules, like tearing down walls, removing floor or wall finishes, cutting tiles, drills, etc., are not allowed from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Any HDB Renovations that make a lot of noise are not allowed on Saturdays, Sundays and Public holidays.

Even if a permit is not needed for the planned renovations, homeowners must still follow the rules and regulations in the guidelines. Finally, three months must not exceed between the date of the renovation permit and the completion of the work.

 Best HDB Renovation Guidelines in 2024

1.   Set Renovation Goals and Budget

Home renovation work can be thrilling and terrifying. Your home may look better, match your needs, and possibly be worth more. Budgeting, planning, employing contractors, and funding are all important. To have a decent project, you need a well-planned goal and knowledge of all the aspects determining renovation prices. No matter where you live—a tranquil suburb or a hectic city centre like Singapore —cost disparities can affect your renovation budget. You must know how to conserve money, make sensible investments, and be prepared for the unexpected when making home upgrades. Home improvements can save you money over time if done appropriately.

Furthermore, research the cost of living, material supply, and labour rates that might affect renovation costs. Look out for renovation financing options like the HomeStyle Renovation mortgage. Some give homeowners loans, which vary by area in Singapore. Know these differences to build a more accurate home renovation budget. When planning your renovation, remember that these prices are not just numbers; they reflect your spending capability to avoid bankruptcy.

When planning a home renovation, consider how old and broken down your house is; for example, the HDB water pipe layout may be worn out. Also consider how big the job is, and which rooms you want to replace. However, you should also realise how location affects how much you spend. Now that you know these things, you can make smarter decisions about changing and paying for your living environment. To understand more about the renovation budget, see our guide on Financing Options For Your Renovation Loan in Singapore 2024.

2.   Understand Application Processes and Permits

Are you going to spice up your HDB flat? Here's another guide to consider. You must obtain an HDB permit or HDB hacking permit before acquiring any tools or carrying out any work. This entails completing a few forms and submitting crucial paperwork, such as contracts and floor plans. This can be completed in person at the HDB office or online.

You will receive a permit specifying what can be done and for how long when HDB issues its approval. When you're prepared to dive in, remember to follow HDB's guidelines. That includes all aspects of construction, including tiling and electrical work. Moreover, remember to only work with contractors who have received the all-clear from HDB. First and foremost, safety!

Make sure everything is neat and orderly as you pound away. Nobody wants to trip over your belongings in the hallway or hear you slamming nonstop. Moreover, be a nice neighbour by ensuring your renovations don't bother other people.

In summary, you can apply for HBD permits online using My HDBPage. The HDB renovation permit approval time does not take time. In addition to HDB approval, you may require other permissions and approvals. For instance, the Building and Construction Authority must approve air-conditioning installations. You may need Town Council clearance for renovations in the building's shared areas. You must get Town Council approval to install a new gate at your flat's entrance.

3.   Select an Expert Renovation Contractor

You can make a big difference in how things turn out by picking the right renovation crew. Consider these factors when choosing your house contractor: someone with an excellent reputation and lots of experience, contractors that have an HDB renovation contractor license on the HDB website, check their history and client evaluations. Finally, before hiring a home renovator, request a thorough quote with all charges. This will prevent the final bill from being unexpected.

In addition, make sure that the worker can finish the project by the date you pick and that you know how long it will take. If the HBD contractor is also an interior designer, it is a big bonus. You may be able to make your dream place both useful and beautiful. Telling the interior designer about your personal style and tastes is important for finding the right one. It's important to be honest with an interior designer about your income and the results you want. With this information, the artist can come up with a solution that works for you and your cash. It is also suggested that you ask for a thorough quote that lists all the costs of the design services.

4.   Plan The Renovation Timing

Planning the HDB renovation timing is an important part of any HDB renovation project that wants to go smoothly and finish on time. During this time, tasks are carefully planned out so that resources are used efficiently, and daily life is interrupted as little as possible. The reason is not far-fetched since it has been stated earlier that renovation should be completed within three months of issuing the HBD permits.

Setting specific renovation goals and targets is the first step to keeping on time, whether upgrading the kitchen, bathrooms, or living areas. Next, splitting the project into smaller phases makes it easier to set appropriate deadlines for each step, from demolishing the existing building to finishing. Working with contractors, suppliers, and other key people helps avoid delays and keep plans on track.

Taking into account possible problems that come up out of the blue or changes in the supply of materials is also important for keeping the timeline flexible. By communicating and monitoring the timeline, changes may be made swiftly and the project stays on track. A well-planned renovation schedule speeds up the process, reduces stress, and improves the homeowner experience.

For a rundown of the top HDB electrical guide islands and other home renovations, check out these renovation services in Singapore.

5.   Design Considerations for HDB Renovation Permits

When you renovate your HDB flat or condo interior design, you need to think about some structural and design issues. Some of these things to think about are whether your flat is structurally sound and whether the style and look meet HDB standards.

When you're renovating your HDB home, be careful not to damage the structure. This means you shouldn't make any big changes to how your flat is set up or hack or change walls that hold things up. For toilet renovations, you must understand HDB toilet renovation guidelines. If you don’t do this, you put not only your unit but also the building's security at risk.

When it comes to appearance and style, there are guidelines that you must adhere to. For example, if you are renovating your bathroom or kitchen, make sure the waterproofing is done correctly and that all of the fixtures and hardware match HDB guidelines.

Also, when you hack into walls, you must follow HDB rules and make sure that the tools you put in are safe and meet up with standards. When you renovate your floor, make sure the floor finishes you pick will last and are easy to clean. Last but not least, when you replace windows, make sure you follow HDB regulations and renovation timing and that your interior design style and theme match your mood board. It is vital to follow the guidelines to make sure that the work you do on your HDB is safe and looks good.

6.   Make the Renovation Eco-Friendly

Are you still in doubt about how to renovate your HDB to an Eco-Friendly HDB Home?  These suggestions below will help the environment and your wallet. It is now easier to decorate an eco-friendly home, including low-effort ways to make it more beautiful and useful without excessive modifications.  

First, the home should be designed to maximise ventilation. All houses need at least one window for fresh air. This keeps your house cool without air conditioning and a massive electricity hog. You can further add a timeless piece of interior decor that is alluring, compared to trendy décor, which will make your home look old in a few years. Stick to a traditional style to prevent frequent redecorating.

 Furthermore, you can use materials that have low toxicity. The Singapore Green Building Council certifies several building materials. Windows that save energy

Moving on, when it comes to appliances, Air conditioners, fridges, and water heaters have energy and water efficiency labels. The labels help users choose the right appliance for their houses. Use a new air conditioner with 5 ticks on its energy efficiency label. Two-tick air conditioners are better investments. Effective appliances save money and assist the environment!

Install LED lights immediately if you haven't already done so. These toxin-free bulbs are 80% more energy efficient than fluorescent and incandescent lamps. They last up to 10 times longer than standard lighting, reducing lightbulb replacements.

Finally, add modern house plants which have now become popular for good reason. The house stays cooler with plants.

Final Thoughts

Renovating your HDB home requires knowledge of the newest guidelines. It begins with hiring only DRC contractors for renovations. If your renovation plans entail structural, water or electrical improvements, you need an HDB renovation permit. The toilet, kitchen, bathroom, and structural renovations in HDB flats must be done by HDB-registered contractors. You must also follow working hours, noise pollution, water efficiency and hygiene rules. Your HDB permission is required if your remodelling plans entail structural, water or electrical improvements. Contact the best interior design company in Singapore to help you find the most befitting renovation for your home right away!