Not every renovation needs HDB's approval — but the ones that do, really do. Here's a practical guide to which works require a permit, who applies, and how long it takes, from a contractor that files them weekly.
Ask Us Anything
As a rule of thumb: anything involving hacking, walls, floors or windows needs approval before work starts. The common ones:
Painting, installing built-in carpentry, replacing sanitary fittings in the same position, vinyl or laminate overlay flooring, electrical works (done by licensed electricians), and most ceiling and lighting works can proceed without an application — though all works must still follow HDB's renovation guidelines and timing rules.
Your contractor applies — only contractors listed in HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors can submit a permit application, via HDB's electronic system. You'll be asked to endorse the application as the flat owner. Straightforward applications are typically approved within about a week; works involving demolition plans or unusual scopes can take longer. We file the application as part of every job that needs one, before any hacking is scheduled.
Official guidelines are published on HDB's renovation portal — worth a skim, but your contractor should be the one who knows them cold.
HDB takes unauthorised works seriously: you can be required to reinstate the flat at your own cost, and both owners and contractors face penalties. Unapproved hacking also surfaces during resale, when buyers' inspections or HDB checks flag it — turning a quick sale into a reinstatement project. A permit costs nothing but a week of lead time. There is no scenario where skipping it is worth it.
Most straightforward applications are approved within about a week. Add a few days if your scope includes wall demolition (a demolition plan is required) or anything unusual. We file before scheduling hacking so approval never delays your renovation.
The application itself is administratively free for owners in practice — there is no separate HDB fee you need to budget for. Your contractor handles submission as part of the renovation.
No — permit applications must be submitted by a contractor listed in HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors. As the owner you endorse the application, but the contractor files and is accountable for compliance.
Tell us your unit type and what you have in mind — we will get back within one working day with an honest assessment and quote.