Which HDB renovation works need a permit?
Works that need HDB approval
- Hacking or removing walls (non-structural only; structural walls are untouchable)
- Relocating or adding toilets/bathrooms and re-doing floor waterproofing
- Replacing floor finishes with heavy materials such as thick natural stone
- Window replacement or changes to facade elements
- Relocating main gates and fire-rated doors
Works that generally do not need a permit
- Painting, wallpaper and limewash finishes
- Built-in carpentry (kitchens, wardrobes, feature walls)
- Vinyl or laminate overlay on existing flooring
- Light fittings, fans, and most electrical point additions by a licensed electrician
- Sanitary fittings swapped in the same position
Who applies for the permit?
Your renovation firm does. Only contractors listed on HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC) may apply for permits and carry out renovation in HDB flats. Ask for your contractor's DRC registration before signing — it is public information and a basic legitimacy check.
Timelines and noise rules to plan around
- Permit approval commonly takes about 1–3 weeks depending on scope.
- Resale flats: works must finish within 3 months of permit issue.
- Noisy works (hacking, drilling): weekdays 9am–5pm only.
- General works: 8am–6pm weekdays and Saturdays; nothing on Sundays/public holidays.
A good firm sequences noisy works early and back-loads carpentry and styling, so neighbours suffer one bad week instead of nine.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need HDB approval to hack a wall?
Yes. Removing or partially hacking any wall in an HDB flat requires an HDB renovation permit, applied for by an HDB-registered renovation contractor. Structural walls cannot be hacked at all.
How long is an HDB renovation permit valid?
For resale flats, HDB allows up to 3 months to complete renovations; for new BTO flats it is 1 month for works involving noisy activities. Extensions can be requested through your contractor.
What are the allowed renovation hours in HDB estates?
General renovation is allowed 8am–6pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Noisy works such as hacking and drilling are restricted to 9am–5pm on weekdays only — none on Saturdays, Sundays or public holidays.
Can I change my HDB windows?
Window replacement must follow HDB-approved designs for your block and be installed by a BCA-approved window contractor; some estates restrict colours and frames to keep the facade uniform.
Figures on this page are indicative estimates for Singapore as of 2026, gathered from our project experience. Your quote depends on scope, materials and site condition — WhatsApp us for a free, itemised quotation.
Planning a renovation?
Send us your floor plan — we reply with a styled render and an itemised quote.