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Q1.   What should I do if I want to renovate my flat?
You should check whether the renovation item requires a renovation permit before you commence on the renovation works. You can refer to the information leaflets on "Renovation Guide For Your HDB Flat" or the HDB InfoWEB under "Renovation & Maintenance".

If the works require a renovation permit, you can either submit your application for the renovation permit personally to your HDB Branch Office or through your contractor.You are required to sign on the authorization section of the application form if you are authorizing a representative to act on your behalf. Completed application forms can also be submitted by post or through your HDB Branch Office.

Q2.   What kind of renovation work am I permitted to carry out?
You can carry out renovation work, which does not affect the structural stability. Examples of permitted renovation work are:

• Laying of ceramic/terrazzo/marble/parquet or other tiles as floor finishes.
• Laying of additional wall tiles up to ceiling height.?
• Construction of kitchen cabinet base with cement mortar.
• Installation of grilles in windows or at balcony openings.
• Installation of cornices.

For more details, as well as for works requiring a renovation permit, please refer to 'Renovation Guide For Your HDB Flat'. Alternatively, you can also visit the HDB InfoWEB under "Renovation & Maintenance".

Q3.   Can I sign the renovation contracts with an unlicensed contractor?
Unlicensed contractors are not allowed to carry out any renovation works in flats. Therefore, you must not sign any contract with an unlicensed contractor to renovate your flat. Q4.   Since flat owners need not apply renovation permit for certain renovation items, why can't flat owners engage contractors who are not registered with HDB to carry out these works?
Although a renovation permit is no longer required, flat owners are still required to engage HDB licensed renovation contractors to carry out the renovation works and comply with the guidelines and conditions governing the respective activities of these renovation contractors within HDB estates and to ensure that they do not cause any nuisance to other residents or damage HDB properties while carrying out the renovation works. Q5.   How do I check whether my renovation contractor has a HDB licence?
Renovation contractors registered with HDB are given an HDB renovation licence which bears the photograph of the licence holder, the particulars of the company and their authorised representatives. Flat owners can also check the particulars of a renovation contractor by referring to the 'List of Registered Renovation Contractors' in HDB InfoWEB at http://www.hdb.gov.sg under "HDB Living-Renovation & Mainenance." Q6.   What documents do I have to furnish when applying for a renovation permit?
When applying for a renovation permit, the following documents need to be submitted:
• Documentary proof of your ownership of the flat.
• Your renovation contractor's licence.
• Two copies of drawings, if your renovation work involves the removal or repositionings, demolition or construction of walls.

You and your licensed renovation contractor must sign all drawings submitted. You can purchase the floor plan for your flat from your HDB Branch Office or brochure.

Q7.   How much time am I given to complete my renovation work?
For new blocks, you must complete the approved renovation works within four months from the date of the renovation permit. For existing blocks, the approved work must be completed within one month from the date of the renovation permit. Q8.   Who will be held responsible if the renovation work in my flat does not comply with HDB's requirements or are unauthorised?
As the flat owner, you are responsible for the renovation work carried out in your flat. For further clarification on your renovation works, please contact the HDB Branch Office in charge of your flat. Q9.   I had engaged a HDB licensed renovation contractors to renovate my flats. Can HDB help me to resolve my dispute with the contractor caused as a result of pricing, delay in work, poor workmanship. etc.?
The HDB licensed Renovation Contractors' Scheme was introduced to regulate the activities of these contractors to ensure that they do not create any nuisance in HDB properties while carrying out their renovation work in HDB flats.

As HDB is not a party to the contract, it would be more appropriate for you and your renovation contractor to resotve the matter amicably. If you cannot settle the dispute amicably, both parties could seek assistance through the Small Claims Tribunals or seek legal redress through court proceedings.