Renovation works in Singapore are governed by strict approval requirements to protect homeowners, neighbours, and the structural safety of buildings.
Depending on the scope of work, certain renovations must be approved by the Housing & Development Board (HDB) or the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) before any work begins.
Many homeowners may not know that the homeowner is responsible for renovation compliance. This is true even if an interior designer or contractor is in charge of the renovation.
HDB approval is required for renovation works that may affect structural safety, fire protection, waterproofing, or shared spaces.
Unapproved works, whether accidental or otherwise, can lead to fines, stop-work orders, or mandatory reinstatement at the homeowner’s expense.
This guide explains which renovation works require HDB or BCA approval, which works are prohibited, and which typically do not require approval.
This will help homeowners like you make safer, more informed renovation decisions and avoid costly mistakes before renovation works begin.
1. Renovation Works That Require HDB Approval (HDB Flats)
For renovation works that require HDB approval, homeowners must engage contractors listed in HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC).
These contractors are familiar with HDB regulations, approved renovation procedures, and site restrictions.
Using a DRC-listed contractor helps ensure that works are carried out safely, approvals are properly submitted, and renovation progresses smoothly.
Engaging non-approved contractors may result in rejected applications, work stoppages, or enforcement action even if the renovation is already underway.
Because some approval-required works involve hacking, waterproofing, or structural changes, they may influence your overall renovation budget.
If you’re planning your finances, it may help to understand how much renovation costs in Singapore are for HDB and condo units, so you can budget with fewer surprises.
Renovation Areas That Require HDB Approval:
1. Floor Finishes
2. Wall Works (Erection, Demolition & Finishes)
3. Door Works
4. Sold Recess Area
5. Staircase Renovation (Executive Maisonettes)
6. Bathroom and Toilet Works
7. Installation of Awning at Open-to-Sky Balconies (Topmost Units)
8. Air-Conditioner Installation Works
9. Window Works
1. Floor Finishes
You will need a permit for the following floor-related renovation works:
Floor Finishes That Require HDB Approval
| Types of Building Work |
Key Points Homeowners Should Know |
|
Replacement of floor finishes (including Ceramic, Homogeneous, Terrazzo, Marble, Parquet / timber, Other tiles)
|
The total thickness of floor finishes plus screed must not exceed 50mm
|
|
Replacement of existing bathroom / toilet floor finishes
|
Replacement is allowed only after the first 3 years from the block’s completion date
Total thickness of finishes and screed must not exceed 50mm
Use pre-packed waterproofing screed and install a waterproofing membrane before laying new tiles
Waterproofing membrane must be upturned at least 150mm against walls, kerbs, and pipes
|
Raising floor levels (topping up flooring)
Applicable to balconies, kitchens, bathrooms, and toilets
|
Only lightweight, non-combustible materials may be used
Existing floor finishes, including cement screed, must be fully removed before topping up
|
Source: Housing & Development Board (HDB)
These restrictions help:
- Prevent excessive loading on floor slabs
- Reduce the risk of water seepage to neighbouring units
- Maintain long-term structural safety of the building
There are additional technical restrictions depending on flat type and renovation scope, so homeowners should always consult their interior designer or contractor before proceeding.
2. Wall Works (Erection, Demolition & Finishes)
You will need a permit for the following wall-related renovation works:
Wall Works (Erection, Demolition & Finishes) That Require HDB Approval
| Types of Building Work |
Key Points Homeowners Should Know |
Demolition of Reinforced Concrete (RC) Walls & Elements
(e.g. partition walls, party walls, lintels, stiffeners)
|
HDB approval is mandatory before any demolition or alteration
Existing RC structures must not be tampered with
A Professional Engineer (PE) (Civil or Structural) is required to supervise the works
The PE must ensure proper repair of affected structural elements
|
Demolition of Non-Structural Lightweight Walls
(e.g. hollow block, brick, drywall, Ferrolite walls)
|
HDB approval is still required
RC structures must not be affected during works
|
|
Creating Openings Between Two Flats
|
Only non-structural walls may be altered
Demolition is allowed up to the underside of the RC beam or slab only
Works must be done from top to bottom
If steel bars are discovered, works must stop immediately and HDB must be informed
|
|
Internal Wall Finish Replacement (Including Wall Arches)
|
No structural tampering allowed
Total wall finish thickness (including plaster) must not exceed 25mm
Pre-packed plastering materials must be used
|
|
Bathroom & Toilet Wall Finishes
|
Replacement allowed only after the first 3 years from block completion
No structural tampering
Total wall finish thickness must not exceed 25mm
Pre-packed plastering materials required
|
Source: Housing & Development Board (HDB)
HDB permits are required for wall hacking, arch construction, and internal wall finish replacement to protect the structural safety of your home.
By regulating these works, HDB ensures that essential wall structures are not tampered with, reducing the risk of long-term structural issues.
Structural works often influence renovation costs, deposits, and contractual terms.
Before agreeing to any quotation, it helps to understand whether an accurate renovation quote can be provided online, and how much renovation deposit should be paid upfront to avoid financial surprises later.
3. Door Works
You will need a permit for the following door-related renovation works:
Door Works That Require HDB Approval
| Types of Building Work |
Key Points Homeowners Should Know |
Replacement of Main Entrance Door (Along Fire Escape Routes)
If your main entrance door opens into common areas such as staircases or lift lobbies,
HDB approval is required.
|
Door must be half-hour fire-rated
Door frame must include a self-closing device
Fire-rated door must have a valid accreditor’s label
A localised smoke or fire alarm system must be installed in the unit
Only
SCDF-certified digital locksets
are allowed if installing a digital lock
|
|
Repositioning of Internal Door Entrances
|
New door openings must not be created through reinforced concrete (RC) walls
|
Source: Housing & Development Board (HDB)
These requirements ensure that door works do not compromise fire safety, escape routes, or structural integrity of flats, protecting both homeowners and neighbours.
4. Sold Recess Area
Any renovation works carried out within the sold recess area require HDB approval. This includes works such as installing or replacing gates, grilles, doors, awnings, roofs, windows, floor and wall finishes, topping up floors, and hacking or building non-load-bearing walls.
Key Points Homeowners Should Know:
- A permit is always required for renovation in the sold recess area
- Approval is assessed case by case, and specific conditions will be issued after evaluation
- Works must comply with safety, structural, and aesthetic guidelines
Source: Housing & Development Board (HDB)
This is important because the sold recess area affects shared spaces, regulations help keep the building safe, fire exits clear, and the overall look of the block consistent.
5. Staircase Renovation (Executive Maisonettes)
Any works involving staircases in executive maisonettes require HDB approval if there is a vertical drop of 1 metre or more.
You will need a permit for the following staircase renovation works:
Staircase Renovation (Executive Maisonettes) That Require HDB Approval
| Works That Require Approval |
Key Points Homeowners Should Know |
Replacing existing staircase railings or balustrades
Installing safety barriers along staircases or walls facing open voids
|
A Professional Engineer (PE) (Civil or Structural) must be engaged
Structural plans must be approved by BCA before submission to HDB
The existing effective width of the staircase must be maintained
|
Source: Housing & Development Board (HDB)
Staircases are an important safety feature in the home. These rules help prevent falls, keep stairways safe to use, and ensure the building remains structurally sound.
6. Bathroom and Toilet Works
You will need a permit for the following bathroom and toilet renovation works:
Bathroom & Toilet Works That Require HDB Approval
| Works That Require Approval |
Key Points Homeowners Should Know |
|
Enlarging the Bathroom or Toilet
|
Extension must be no more than 600mm wide and 0.6 sqm in area
Extended space can be used only as a dry area (e.g. wash basin or shelves)
Gas risers and gas pipes must not be enclosed within the extended area
|
|
Removal or Replacement of Toilet Wall & Floor Finishes (BTO Flats)
|
You must wait at least 3 years before removing any wall or floor finishes in BTO toilets
Early removal may damage the original waterproofing, leading to water leakage issues
|
|
Replacing Bathroom or Toilet Vents
|
Glass louvres must be at least 6mm thick
Must use wire-glass type
Each glass louvre must have an aluminium U-channel safety device
|
Source: Housing & Development (HDB)
These guidelines help protect waterproofing, ventilation, and gas safety, reducing the risk of leaks, fire hazards, and issues that could affect neighbouring units.
7. Installation of Awning at Open-to-Sky Balconies (Topmost Units)
Installing an awning at an open-to-sky balcony in a topmost unit requires HDB approval. This is because such installations may affect the building’s external appearance, drainage, and structural safety.
Key Points Homeowners Should Know:
- Approval is assessed case by case
- The awning design must comply with safety, structural, and façade guidelines
- Installation must not cause water ponding, leakage, or obstruction to neighbours
Source: Housing & Development (HDB)
Awnings at open-to-sky balconies can impact rainwater flow and the building’s exterior. Regulations ensure installations are safe, well-integrated, and do not affect other units or the overall building structure.
8. Air-Conditioner Installation Works
For BTO flats, if you are installing the air-conditioner compressor at the designated air-conditioner ledge, no HDB permit is required.
For resale HDB flats that are still using a 30 Amp main switch (which is an older electrical capacity), HDB approval is required before installing air-conditioners that use a new 15 Amp power point, or 20 Amp isolator.
For installations on building exterior, you must submit an air-conditioner installation report if:
- The air-conditioner is installed on the building exterior, or
- Any part of the air-conditioner projects outward from the building
Source: mynicehome by HDB
These rules help keep your home electrically safe, prevent power overloads, and maintain the building’s appearance.
9. Window Works
HDB approval is required if you plan to install or replace windows or grilles at your service yard or balcony.
Key Points Homeowners Should Know:
- Window and grille designs must follow HDB’s approved colour and design scheme
- Only engage Building Construction Authority (BCA)'s approved window contractor listed with HDB
- All works must meet HDB safety requirements
Source: mynicehome by HDB, Housing & Development Board (HDB)
These rules help prevent accidents and ensure your flat’s exterior remains safe and consistent with the rest of the block.
Applying for an HDB Renovation Permit
- Appoint your interior designer (ID) or HDB-licensed contractor, who will submit the electronic renovation application on your behalf.
- Provide renovation plans if works involve hacking walls, building new walls, or relocating fittings.
- HDB processes the application and notifies the flat owner by SMS once it is approved.
- View the approved renovation permit on My HDBPage before renovation works begin.
There is no application fee charged by HDB for a renovation permit. However, homeowners are required to pay a refundable renovation deposit to HDB.
This deposit ensures that renovation works comply with HDB guidelines and that common areas are not damaged.
The deposit is refunded once the renovation is completed and all conditions are met.
Note: Any permit handling or administrative fees are charged by your renovation contractor, not by HDB.
For full details, refer to HDB’s official renovation permit page.
2. Renovation Works That Require BCA Approval
Some renovation works require approval from the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) because they involve the building’s structural safety.
These works are usually more complex and may affect how the building supports weight or remains stable over time.
Renovation Works That Require BCA Approval:
Renovation Works That Require BCA Approval:
| Property Type |
Type of Approval Required |
Examples of Renovation Works That Require Approval |
|
HDB Flats
|
Structural works in HDB flats usually require both BCA and HDB approval.
|
Hacking or altering load-bearing or reinforced concrete (RC) walls
Creating openings in RC walls
Staircase modifications in executive maisonettes
Structural works affecting beams, columns, or slabs
|
|
Condominiums
|
For condominiums, structural works require BCA approval and MCST approval.
|
Structural wall hacking or major layout changes
Staircase alterations within maisonette or penthouse units
External alteration changes or extensions
Works that increase floor loading or affect shared structural elements
|
|
Landed Properties
|
Landed homes typically have more flexibility, but structural works still require BCA approval.
|
Adding or modifying lofts, mezzanines, or additional floors
Structural extensions or major reconstructions
Altering beams, slabs, or columns
Large-scale internal reconfiguration affecting the structure
|
For more information, visit the BCA website.
Who Applies for BCA Approval?
Structural renovation works must be submitted by a Qualified Person (QP). A QP is a Professional Engineer (PE) registered in the Civil or Structural discipline, who is authorised to prepare and submit structural plans to BCA.
What the QP does:
- Submits structural building plans to BCA for approval
- Applies for the permit to carry out structural works before renovation begins
For the permit application, the QP, builder, and developer (or homeowner, where applicable) must submit a joint application.
Homeowners do not apply directly. Your renovation contractor will typically engage a PE (QP) to handle all BCA submissions and approvals on your behalf.
For full details, refer to BCA’s official guidelines.
What Happens If BCA Approval Is Not Obtained?
Unauthorised structural works may result in:
- Stop-work orders
- Fines or enforcement action
- Mandatory reinstatement at the homeowner’s cost
HomeMatch’s ID Pro-Tip: If your renovation involves hacking walls, staircases, or major layout changes, ask early whether a Professional Engineer is required. Structural approvals take longer, so early planning helps avoid delays.
3. Renovation Works That Are Prohibited in HDBs
Some renovation works are strictly not allowed in HDB flats due to safety and structural concerns.
Renovation Works That Are Prohibited in HDBs:
Renovation Works That Are Prohibited in HDBs:
| Prohibited Renovation Work |
Why It’s Not Allowed |
|
Building platform storage, lofts, or mezzanine levels
|
According to HDB regulations, it adds excessive weight and may affect the flat’s structural safety.
|
Extending floor area by covering void spaces
(e.g. creating a loft or mezzanine level)
|
Changes the approved building structure and creates safety risks.
Adding a mezzanine in an HDB maisonette can result in heavy fines if done without approval.
|
|
Concealing exposed pipes without an access opening of at least 600mm in height and width
|
According to HDB regulations, it can make maintenance difficult and increases the risk of leaks or faults.
|
|
Making any changes to structural walls
|
Can weaken the building and compromise overall stability.
|
|
Making any changes to your household shelter
|
Affects the household shelter’s safety function and structural integrity.
|
|
Raising floor levels beyond 50mm (including finishes)
|
According to HDB regulations, it places excessive load on the floor slab.
|
|
Installing fixtures or flooring outside the unit entrance
|
Obstructs common areas and fire escape routes.
|
|
Changing the original bathroom layout or shifting sanitary pipes
|
According to HDB regulations, it increases the risk of water leakage and affects plumbing systems.
|
|
Changing your main unit door to a non-fire-rated door
|
Compromises fire safety and evacuation routes.
|
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Installing fish tanks exceeding 600kg per room
|
According to HDB regulations, it exceeds safe floor loading limits.
|
|
Permanently covering planter boxes
|
Affects drainage, ventilation, and building design.
|
Source: Stacked Homes, Housing & Development Board (HDB)
4. Renovation Works That Typically Do Not Require Approval
Some renovation works are considered cosmetic and usually do not require HDB approval, as they do not affect the flat’s structure or safety.
Renovation Works That Typically Do Not Require Approval:
Renovation Works That Typically Do Not Require Approval:
| Renovation Work |
Why Approval Is Not Needed |
|
Painting
|
Does not affect walls or structural elements
|
|
Installing built-in cabinets
|
No structural or load-bearing changes involved
|
|
Furniture works
|
Considered non-permanent and cosmetic
|
HomeMatch’s ID Pro-Tip: If the work involves hacking, drilling into structural walls, or altering layouts, approval may still be required. When in doubt, always check before starting renovation.
Make Safe, Informed Renovation Decisions
Renovation approvals in Singapore are meant to keep homes safe, structurally sound, and compliant.
Whether approval is required from the Housing & Development Board (HDB) or the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) depends on the type of renovation work.
However, the responsibility for ensuring compliance always lies with the homeowner.
Knowing what requires approval, what is not allowed, and what can proceed without a permit helps you as a homeowner avoid delays, penalties, and unnecessary stress.
If you're planning an HDB renovation, you'll need more than just a designer, you'll need a partner who understands the law.
HomeMatch provides the Safest-Smartest assurance by connecting you only with top-rated, individually screened professionals.
