Singapore’s Housing and Development Board will allocate more than S$253 million to upgrade over 18,000 HDB flats countrywide under the Home Improvement Programme, aiming to improve living conditions and address maintenance issues in aging blocks.
- More than 18,000 flats to receive upgrades
- Government covers majority of essential and optional works
- Senior-friendly fittings available through EASE programme
What happened
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) has announced that more than 18,000 public housing flats across Singapore will undergo upgrading under the Home Improvement Programme (HIP). A budget of over S$253 million has been set aside for these essential and optional improvements. The selected blocks span 12 towns, including Bedok, Bishan, Bukit Batok, and more, covering a broad segment of older flats.
The upgrades focus on tackling common maintenance issues like concrete spalling and ceiling leaks, enhancing the safety and livability of these flats. Homeowners will benefit from heavily subsidised works, with the government funding the vast majority of essential upgrades and a significant portion of optional enhancements tailored to resident preferences.
Why it feels good
This extensive upgrading program not only addresses wear and tear that naturally occurs over time but also significantly boosts the quality of living for residents in mature estates. The fact that the government shoulders most costs, leaving residents to pay as little as 5 to 12.5 percent depending on flat size, makes these improvements very accessible.
In addition, the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme complements HIP by providing subsidised senior-friendly fittings such as grab bars, slip-resistant floor treatments, and newer additions like rocker switches and home fire alarms. This comprehensive care reflects a thoughtful approach to ensure safe and comfortable homes for aging residents.
What to enjoy or watch next
Residents selected for HIP can choose from a variety of optional upgrades like new entrance doors or refuse chute hoppers to personalise their homes while benefiting from improved safety and maintenance. As of now, nearly 9 in 10 eligible flats have been selected for the programme since its launch in 2007, with hundreds of thousands of households having already completed upgrading works.
Looking ahead, those interested in the upgrades should watch for official notifications and consultation events, just like the recent public consultation held in Bukit Batok, where residents learned more about how HIP and accompanying programmes can improve their homes. Keeping an eye on these community engagements will help residents make the most of available subsidies and services.