HDB renovation permit guide: rules, approved contractors and hours

An HDB renovation permit is needed for many common works, and HDB has rules on which contractors you can use and when they can work. Here's what HDB's own guidance says, so your renovation doesn't stall.

Use a contractor from HDB's directory

HDB requires the renovation contractor you engage to be listed in HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC). Window works need a BCA-approved window contractor. Ask any contractor or interior designer for their DRC listing before you sign.

Works that need a permit

According to HDB, you need a permit for works such as:

• Hacking or altering walls
• Removing or replacing floor finishes, or raising floor levels, in the kitchen, balcony, bathroom or toilet
• Changing the location of doors
• Replacing the main entrance door if it faces a staircase or lift lobby (it must be a half-hour fire-rated door with a closer)

Some works aren't allowed at all, including hacking or drilling into the household shelter walls, creating new openings through reinforced concrete walls, and removing wall or floor finishes in the toilets of new BTO flats within 3 years (overlaying tiles is the alternative).

How the application works

• You're responsible as the owner, but your contractor can apply online for you.
• Works involving layout changes need plans with the application.
• HDB sends an SMS when it receives the application, and you can check the approved permit online.

Renovation hours and deadlines

After approval, HDB asks for works to be completed within 3 months for new flats and 1 month for existing flats. Ask your contractor to tell neighbours before works start.

Next steps

Budget with our renovation cost guide, and get up to 3 quotes from vetted contractors and interior designers on our renovation page. Collecting BTO keys? See BTO key collection to move-in.