Whether you have just collected the keys to a new BTO flat or bought a resale flat that needs updating, a good HDB renovation starts with a clear plan. Reno Guys handles HDB renovation across Singapore, from 3-room flats to Executive apartments, with carpentry built in our own workshop in Woodlands.
HDB Renovation Services We Handle
- Carpentry: built-in wardrobes, kitchen cabinets, platform beds, TV consoles and storage. See our carpentry services.
- Hacking and demolition: removing old tiles, built-ins and approved walls. See our hacking and demolition services.
- Electrical: rewiring, new power points, lighting and DB box replacement. See our DB box installation.
- Flooring: vinyl and SPC flooring laid over existing tiles, with no hacking. See our SPC vinyl flooring.
- Bathrooms and kitchens: tiling, waterproofing, plumbing and fittings. See our toilet and bathroom renovation and HDB kitchen renovation.
- Painting: walls, ceilings, doors and feature walls. See our painting services.
BTO Renovation vs Resale HDB Renovation
| New BTO Flat | Resale HDB Flat | |
|---|---|---|
| Typical focus | Carpentry, flooring, lighting, painting and fittings | Hacking, rewiring, re-piping, retiling and new carpentry |
| Bathrooms | Wall and floor finishes can’t be removed for the first 3 years; overlaying is the usual option | Finishes can be replaced with an HDB permit |
| Electrical | Usually extra points and lighting | Older wiring and DB boxes may need replacing |
| Main consideration | Timing the works around your move-in date | Uncovering hidden problems behind old finishes |
HDB Renovation Rules You Should Know
HDB’s renovation guidelines protect the building’s structure and your neighbours. The main points for flat owners are:
- Use a DRC-listed contractor. As a general rule, homeowners should hire a contractor listed on HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors for renovation works in an HDB flat, including works that don’t need a permit. You can check the directory on the HDB website before you sign.
- Get a permit where needed. Hacking or building walls, and replacing floor finishes in bathrooms, need HDB’s approval before work starts. Your contractor can apply on your behalf once you authorise them. A new flat needs a utilities account with SP Services before a permit can be granted.
- Keep to the work hours. Noisy works such as hacking, tile removal and drilling are limited to set weekday hours and must be completed within a short period. General renovation is allowed within set hours from Monday to Saturday, with no works on Sundays and public holidays.
- Inform your neighbours. Neighbours within 2 units must get written notice at least 5 days before works start, and HDB’s Notice of Renovation must be displayed outside the flat throughout the works.
- Don’t touch the structure. Reinforced concrete walls, columns, beams and slabs must not be hacked or altered.
- Use licensed trades. Electrical work must be done by an EMA-licensed electrical worker, and water and sanitary plumbing by a PUB-licensed plumber.
The rules change from time to time, so always check the latest guidelines on the HDB website before you plan.
Planning Your HDB Renovation Timeline
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 1. Site visit and measurement | We measure the flat and discuss your layout, style and priorities. |
| 2. Design and quotation | Layout drawings, material choices and an itemised quotation. |
| 3. Permits and notices | Permit applications and neighbour notices are prepared. |
| 4. Hacking and wet works | Hacking, plumbing, electrical wiring and tiling. |
| 5. Carpentry and flooring | Carpentry is installed after wet works, followed by flooring. |
| 6. Painting and handover | Painting, lights and fittings, cleaning and a final walk-through. |
A BTO flat with mainly carpentry work moves faster than a resale flat that needs hacking and rewiring. We give you a schedule with your quotation so you can plan your move.
Ideas by Flat Type
3-room and 4-room flats
Space is the priority. Full-height wardrobes, platform beds with storage, and an open kitchen where HDB allows it make a compact flat feel larger.
5-room and Executive flats
With more space, homeowners often add a study, a walk-in wardrobe or a feature wall. Older Executive flats often benefit from rewiring and new flooring throughout.
What Affects the Cost of HDB Renovation
| Item | What Affects the Cost |
|---|---|
| Flat type | Number of rooms and floor area |
| New or resale | Condition of existing finishes |
| Hacking | Walls, tiles and built-ins removed |
| Carpentry | Length, material and finish |
| Electrical and plumbing | Rewiring, new points, re-piping |
| Materials | Tiles, flooring, fittings and paint |
Note: Every flat is different. Contact us for a free, itemised quote based on your exact requirements.
Ready to plan your flat? Request a free quote or WhatsApp us at +65 9731 6300.
