Answer
HDB Essential Repairs Programme (ERP)
What HDB fixes for free, what you pay a subsidised rate for, and what's entirely on you.
Answer: The HDB Essential Repairs Programme covers structural and safety repairs in older HDB flats — spalling concrete, ceiling leaks from the unit above, and aged sanitary pipe replacement. HDB fully covers common area repairs and subsidises in-flat repairs (homeowners pay $100-$500 depending on scope). It targets flats typically 15+ years old. This is separate from the Home Improvement Programme (HIP), which is a comprehensive upgrading for flats 30+ years old. Report issues via the HDB MyRequest portal or call 1800-225-5432.
What HDB Covers vs What You Pay
| Repair Type | Who Pays | Est. Owner Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Spalling concrete (common areas — corridors, void deck) | HDB (100%) | $0 |
| Spalling concrete (within your flat — ceiling, walls) | Subsidised | $80–$200 |
| Ceiling leak (caused by flat above — common pipe) | HDB (100%) | $0 |
| Ceiling leak (caused by flat above — private pipe/renovation) | Upper floor owner | Varies |
| Waste pipe replacement (common vertical stack) | HDB (100%) | $0 |
| Waste pipe replacement (within your flat) | Subsidised | $100–$350 |
| Water supply pipe replacement | Subsidised | $150–$400 |
| RC (reinforced concrete) repair — structural | HDB (100%) | $0 |
| General wear & tear (tiles, paint, fixtures) | Owner (100%) | Full cost |
| Renovation damage (hacking, waterproofing failure) | Owner (100%) | Full cost |
Costs are approximate and may vary by flat type and extent of damage. Lower-income households may qualify for additional subsidies. Contact HDB for a quote before works begin.
ERP vs HIP vs EASE — Which Programme?
HDB runs several maintenance and upgrading programmes. Here's how they differ:
| Programme | What It Covers | Flat Age | Cost to Owner |
|---|---|---|---|
| ERP | Essential structural repairs (spalling, pipes, leaks) | 15+ years | $0–$500 (subsidised) |
| HIP | Comprehensive upgrade (bathroom, pipes, electrical, optional items) | 30+ years | $250–$5,750 (subsidised) |
| EASE | Elderly-friendly fittings (grab bars, ramps, non-slip tiles) | Any age | $125–$625 (heavily subsidised) |
| LUP | Lift upgrading (adding lifts to older blocks without lift access on every floor) | Varies | $2,500–$5,000 |
How to Report & Apply
- 1.Report online: Log in to HDB MyRequest via MyHDBPage app or hdb.gov.sg. Select "Repairs & Maintenance" and describe the issue with photos.
- 2.HDB inspection: HDB sends a Building Service Centre (BSC) officer to inspect. They determine if the issue falls under ERP, HIP, or is the owner's responsibility.
- 3.Quotation: If ERP-eligible, HDB provides a subsidised cost estimate. You confirm acceptance before works begin.
- 4.Works carried out: HDB's appointed contractor performs the repair. Typical timeline: 2-6 weeks from approval.
- 5.Payment: Your subsidised share is deducted via GIRO or payable at HDB Branch. Some items can be paid from your CPF OA.
Common Scenarios
- →Ceiling leak from upstairs: First, try to resolve with your neighbour. If the leak is from common pipes, HDB covers it under ERP. If it's from the neighbour's private renovation or plumbing, the neighbour is responsible. HDB can mediate via the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunal (CDRT) if needed.
- →Concrete chunks falling from ceiling: This is spalling concrete — a safety issue. Report immediately. HDB will inspect and repair under ERP, usually at no cost for structural areas.
- →Rusty pipes, brown water: If the pipes are part of the common stack, HDB replaces them under ERP. If the rust is from pipes within your flat (your side of the stopcock), you pay the subsidised rate.
Planning to Sell Your HDB?
Factor in the condition of your flat — buyers notice unresolved repairs. Calculate your sale proceeds and upgrade budget.
Calculate Your NumbersFAQ
What is the HDB Essential Repairs Programme (ERP)?
The Essential Repairs Programme is HDB's initiative to maintain the structural integrity and safety of older HDB flats. It covers essential repairs like spalling concrete, ceiling leaks from the flat above, and replacement of aged sanitary pipes. HDB coordinates the works and subsidises part of the cost. It is NOT the same as the Home Improvement Programme (HIP), which is a more comprehensive upgrading programme.
Is the Essential Repairs Programme free?
Not entirely. HDB covers the full cost of some essential items (e.g., spalling concrete repair on common areas) but homeowners pay a subsidised rate for repairs within their flat. For example, pipe replacement within your flat may cost $100-$300 after HDB's subsidy. The exact cost depends on your flat type, the scope of works, and whether you qualify for additional subsidies (e.g., lower-income households).
How is ERP different from HIP?
The Essential Repairs Programme (ERP) addresses urgent structural and safety issues in older flats — think spalling concrete, pipe leaks, and ceiling repairs. It is reactive and targets specific problems. The Home Improvement Programme (HIP) is a comprehensive upgrading package that includes bathroom upgrades, new pipes, electrical rewiring, and optional improvements like new doors and tiles. HIP is offered to flats aged 30+ years and requires a residents' poll (75% approval).
Can I opt out of the Essential Repairs Programme?
For common area repairs that affect structural integrity (e.g., spalling concrete on external walls, common corridors), you cannot opt out — these are mandatory for safety. For repairs within your flat (e.g., replacing internal waste pipes), you can technically decline, but it is strongly discouraged as deteriorating pipes can cause leaks affecting your neighbours and may result in you bearing full repair costs later.
How do I report a repair issue to HDB?
Report via the HDB MyRequest portal (MyHDBPage app or hdb.gov.sg). Select 'Repairs & Maintenance' and describe the issue. For emergencies like ceiling leaks or spalling concrete, call HDB's Branch Service Line at 1800-225-5432. HDB will inspect and determine if the issue falls under ERP or if it is the homeowner's responsibility.
Related
Last updated Feb 2026. ERP coverage and subsidies are based on HDB's published guidelines and may change. Costs are estimates — HDB provides exact quotations after inspection. Contact HDB at 1800-225-5432 or via MyHDBPage for your specific case. This is not legal or financial advice.