GUIDELINES
Q10. What should l do if I want to install/replace a window?
From 1 Dec 2003, flat owners are required to engage a trained window contractor to carry out the window installation/replacement works.The works are to comply with the minimum safety requirements for window installation. Flat owners may search for such listing of trained window contractors in the HDB InfoWEB at http://www.hdb.gov.sg under "Renovation & Maintenance" or call toll-free Branch Office Service Line at 1800-2255432.
Q11. What type of air-conditloner can I install?
You can install either window/casement unit or split type air-conditioners. However, you must ensure that the total electrical running current of your air- conditioner does not exceed the maximum electrical rating allowed for flats with 30 amps main switch.
For flats provided with 40 amp main switch and flats upgraded under the Main Upgrading Programme (MUP), there is no control on running current of Electrical appliances.
Q12. What must I do if I want to install an air-conditioner?
You are required to engage a Building and Construction Authority (BCA) trained air-conditioner installer if the air-conditioner is to be mounted on the exterior of your flat, or if any part of the air-conditioner projects outwards from your flat.
If your flat is provided with 30 amps main switch and you wish to install an air- conditioner using a new power point, you are required to submit an application for the air-conditioner permit, together with the SP Services Ltd (SPSL) Form CS/5 to the HDB Branch Office managing your flat, for approval and endorsement respectively. Your BCA trained air-conditioner installer or his representative can submit the application on your behalf. Alternatively, you can also submit your application by post or through the deposit box at your HDB Branch Office. Upon completion of the work, you have to apply to the SPSL for testing through your licensed electrical contractor.
For flat provided with 40 amps main switch and flat upgraded under Main Upgrading Programme, there is no control on running current of the air conditioner. Hence, there is no necessity for you to submit an application for the air-conditioner permit.
Q13. How do I tell whether my block is provided with a 40 amp supply/upgraded under the Main Upgrading Programme (MUP) or 30 amp supply?
Flat owners can find out whether their blocks have been provided with the higher electrical loading by checking HDB's InfoWEB. Alternatively, the owners can contact the HDB toll-free Branch Office Service Line at 1800-225 5432.
Q14. What documents do I have to furnish when applying for an air conditioner permit?
You need to complete and/or submit the following documents when applying for the permit:
• Documentary proof of your ownership of the flat.
• Application form for electrical installations/extension and air-conditioner stallation in HDB flats (available at HDB Branch Offices or the HDB InfoWEB).
• SP Services Ltd's Form CS/5 (available at SPSL offices or from your EMA censed electrical contractor) if you install a new power point or reposition the existing power point for your air-conditioner.
• You and your contractor must sign the application forms. You can purchase the flat layout plan of your flat from your HDB Branch Office or make use of the plan in your sales brochure.
Q15. Since there is no need to apply for the permit to install air-conditioners in blocks with 40 amperes supply, does it mean that flat owner can put up any number of air-conditioner and at any location?
No. Flat owner must still comply with the guidelines and conditions governing the installation of air-conditioner including approved guidelines/locations, they must seek HDB's prior approval before they can install the air-conditioner.
Q16. How do flat owners verify that an air-conditioner contractor is registered by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) or whether an electrical or plumbing contractor is licensed by Energy Market Authoritv (EMA) or Ministry of the Environment (ENV) respectively?
For BCA-trained installers, the names of the installers and their installer pass numbers are listed in BCA's website at http://www.bca.gov.sg under "CITI Training & Testing - List of Trained installers of Supports for Air-con units".
For licensed electrical contractors, the names and their licence numbers are listed in EMA's website at http://www.ema.gov.sg under "Search for Licensed Electrical Workers".
For licensed plumbers, the names and their licence numbers are listed in ENV's website at http:///www.env.gov.sg under "Info Centre" access to the "Directory of ENV registered sanitary plumbers".
Q17. Who is responsible for unauthorised electrical exiensions and/or electrical appliances installed in the flat?
The flat owner is responsible for any unauthorised electrical extension and appliances installed in his flat.
Q18. Who will be held responsible for the air-conditioner?
As the flat owner, you will be held responsible for the proper installation, safety and stability of the air-conditioner (casement/window or split unit) in your flat. You should also comply with HDB's requirements as outlined below:
The air-conditioner/condensing unit must be installed in a location approved by HDB
The method of installation must be in accordance with HDB's guidelines. Hacking of holes through reinforced concrete walls, beams or columns is strictly prohibited.
Ensure that your Building and Construction Authority (BCA) trained air- conditioner installer insulates all pipes/joints (especially at the sides of the condensing unit) to prevent condensation and dripping or water.
Condensation water from the air-conditioner must be properly discharged into your flat's internal floor trap (the discharge pipes are not allowed to run along the external wall of your flat).
If you install a new power point or reposition the existing power point for your air-conditioner, you are required to engage a Energy Market Authority (EMA) licensed electrical contractor to carry out the works. The electrical extension must be tested and approved by SP Services Ltd (SPSL).
You should maintain the air-conditioner/condensing unit at all times so as not to cause any inconvenience to your neighbours.
Your flat is provided with concrete air-con ledge, Town Council has imposed the following conditions:
You shall not tamper with the air-con ledge which is part of the common property maintained and managed by the Town Council and ensure that the air-con ledge is kept clean and free from any obstruction at all times.
The air-con ledge is only to be used for placing of air-con condensing unit and nothing else.
You shall grant HDB Town Council, other Government authorities and their authorised person, the right of entry into the flat to carry out routine checking and maintenance works to the air-con ledge. You and your contractor must sign the application forms. You can purchase the flat layout plan of your flat from your HDB Branch Office or make use of the plan in your sales brochure.