HDB Renovation Rules & Guidelines (2026)
What you can and can't do when renovating your HDB flat. Permits, banned works, contractor rules, and renovation hours.
Answer: HDB renovation requires a permit (submitted by your HDB-registered contractor) for any structural or layout changes. Banned works include hacking wet area floor tiles (damages waterproofing), removing load-bearing walls, and modifying the bomb shelter. Renovation hours: Mon–Sat 9am–6pm for noisy works, no work on Sundays and public holidays. Your contractor must be on the HDB Directory of Renovation Contractors. Typical approval takes 3–5 working days. Total renovation period: max 3 months from permit date.
What Needs a Permit vs What Doesn't
| Needs HDB Permit | No Permit Required |
|---|---|
| Hacking walls or floor (non-wet areas) | Painting walls and ceiling |
| Erecting new walls or partitions | Installing curtains, blinds |
| Changing floor tiles (non-wet areas) | Replacing light fittings (like-for-like) |
| Installing ceiling features (false ceiling) | Installing furniture (shelves, cabinets) |
| Rewiring electrical points | Replacing tap/shower head (same location) |
| Changing kitchen layout | Applying wallpaper or vinyl flooring overlay |
| Installing glass doors/panels | Installing smart locks (no hacking needed) |
When in doubt, ask your contractor or check with HDB before starting work.
Strictly Banned Works
These are not allowed under any circumstances, regardless of permit:
| Banned Work | Why |
|---|---|
| Hacking wet area floor tiles | Damages the waterproofing membrane beneath. Causes water leakage to unit below |
| Removing load-bearing walls | Structural integrity of the building. Could cause collapse |
| Modifying the bomb shelter (HS) | Civil Defence shelter must remain intact per SCDF regulations |
| Relocating toilet/bathroom | Plumbing and waste pipes are fixed in position at common risers |
| Enclosing the balcony fully | Violates fire safety and building regulations |
| Raising floor level in wet areas | Affects drainage gradient and waterproofing |
| Installing protruding structures on facade | Affects building exterior, safety risk (falling objects) |
Consequence of banned works: HDB will issue a stop-work order and require you to reinstate the flat to its original condition at your own cost. Serious violations can result in enforcement action.
Renovation Hours
| Work Type | Allowed Hours | Days |
|---|---|---|
| Noisy works | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Monday to Saturday |
| Quiet works | No restriction | Any day |
| Sundays & public holidays | No noisy renovation work allowed | |
Noisy works: hacking, drilling, hammering, sawing, use of power tools.
Quiet works: painting, cleaning, measuring, soft installations.
Contractor Registration Requirements
Your contractor must be listed in the HDB Directory of Renovation Contractors. This is non-negotiable — HDB will reject renovation applications from unregistered contractors.
How to verify your contractor
- Search the HDB website → Renovation → Directory of Renovation Contractors
- Check contractor's HDB registration number (should be on their business card/quote)
- Verify they have valid CaseTrust accreditation (consumer protection)
- Check if there are any complaints lodged with HDB against them
CaseTrust-RCMA accreditation is a joint scheme between CASE (Consumers Association of Singapore) and the Renovation Contractors & Material Suppliers Association. CaseTrust contractors must provide a deposit performance bond (protects your deposit if they default) and follow a standard contract.
Permit Application Process
Typical HDB Renovation Scope & Budget
| Work Category | What It Includes | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Hacking & masonry | Remove non-load-bearing walls, overlay tiles | $3K–$8K |
| Carpentry | Built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, shoe cabinet, TV console | $10K–$25K |
| Plumbing & sanitary | New taps, shower, toilet bowl, vanity (same location) | $2K–$5K |
| Electrical | New points, DB box upgrade, lighting | $2K–$5K |
| Painting | All walls and ceiling, 2–3 coats | $1.5K–$3K |
| Flooring | Vinyl or overlay tiles (no hacking in wet areas) | $3K–$8K |
| False ceiling | Living room, bedrooms, cove lighting | $2K–$5K |
Costs are estimates for a 4-room HDB (2026). Actual costs depend on material quality, design complexity, and contractor. Total typical range: $30K–$65K.
Budget for Your Full Upgrade
Renovation is just one part of the cost. Factor in stamp duty, legal fees, and down payment when planning your move.
FAQ
Do I need a permit for HDB renovation?
Yes, for any works that involve hacking, demolition, installation of new structures, or changes to the flat layout. Your contractor submits the renovation application to HDB on your behalf. Minor works like painting, changing light fittings, or installing curtains do not need a permit.
Can I hack the wall between kitchen and living room?
Only if it is a non-load-bearing wall. Load-bearing walls (structural walls) cannot be removed under any circumstances. Your contractor must check the structural plan and confirm with HDB. Most internal partition walls in newer HDB flats are non-load-bearing and can be removed with approval.
What are the renovation hours for HDB?
Renovation work (noisy works like hacking, drilling, hammering) is allowed Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm only. No renovation on Sundays and public holidays. Quiet works (painting, cleaning) have no time restriction. Your contractor must display the HDB renovation permit at the flat entrance.
Can I hack the bathroom floor tiles?
No. Hacking of floor tiles in wet areas (bathrooms, toilets) is not allowed as it may damage the waterproofing membrane. You can overlay new tiles on top of existing ones. If the existing waterproofing is damaged, you must engage a BCA-registered waterproofing contractor to redo it.
What happens if I use an unregistered contractor?
HDB will reject the renovation application. If works proceed without approval, HDB can issue a stop-work order, require you to reinstate the flat to its original condition at your own cost, and take enforcement action. Always verify your contractor is HDB-registered before signing any contract.
Related
Last updated Feb 2026. HDB renovation guidelines are subject to change. Always check the latest rules on the HDB InfoWEB. Renovation costs are estimates and vary by contractor and scope. This is general information, not professional advice.