What Renovation Works Require HDB Approval? A 2026 Guide for Homeowners

Planning to renovate your HDB flat in Singapore? Before you start hacking walls, replacing tiles or changing your layout, it is important to understand which renovation works require HDB approval and which can be carried out without a permit.

HDB renovation guidelines are in place to protect the structural integrity of the building, maintain safety standards and minimise inconvenience to neighbours. Some renovation works require a renovation permit before work begins, while others can be carried out without prior approval as long as the relevant guidelines are followed.

In this guide, we explain the key HDB renovation rules, common renovation works that require approval, works that generally do not require a permit, renovation timings and what homeowners should check before starting their renovation.

Important: HDB renovation requirements can vary depending on the type of work and the specific flat. Always check the latest HDB guidelines before starting renovation works.

What Is an HDB Renovation Permit?

An HDB renovation permit is the approval required for certain types of renovation work in an HDB flat.

Not every renovation item requires a permit. However, works that may affect the building structure, waterproofing, walls, flooring, plumbing or other building components may be subject to specific requirements.

HDB states that certain types of renovation work can only be carried out after obtaining its prior written approval. If approval is required but not obtained, the work may be considered unauthorised. HDB may require the homeowner to reinstate the flat to its original condition or to comply with the applicable guidelines.

This is why it is important to check the renovation requirements before work starts rather than after construction has already begun.

Do All HDB Renovations Require a Permit?

No. Some common renovation works can be carried out without an HDB renovation permit, provided they comply with the relevant renovation guidelines.

For example, HDB's current building-work guidelines indicate that laying vinyl finishes, carpet or linoleum does not require a permit. Certain wall finishes, such as wallpaper and some decorative finishes, can also be carried out without approval when the applicable conditions are met.

However, "no permit required" does not mean "no rules apply." Homeowners and contractors must still comply with HDB's technical requirements. If a proposed renovation is not covered by the published guidelines, or the proposed measurements or technical details differ from those specified, HDB approval may be required before work begins.

Which HDB Renovation Works Require Approval?

The exact requirements depend on the proposed work, but several common renovation activities require HDB approval.

1. Hacking or Altering Walls

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: "Can I hack this HDB wall?"

The answer depends on the wall and the proposed work, but homeowners should never assume that a wall can be hacked simply because it is not a structural wall.

HDB states that demolition or hacking of walls, whether partial or complete, requires prior written approval. Existing reinforced concrete structures must not be tampered with.

For approved demolition of internal lightweight partition walls, the work must also follow HDB's technical requirements.

If steel bars are discovered during demolition, the work must be stopped and HDB informed immediately.

Thinking about an open-concept layout?

If you want to remove a wall between the kitchen and living room, create a larger opening or alter an internal partition, your renovation contractor should check the requirements and obtain the necessary approval before demolition begins.

HDB may also require the flat's floor plan showing the proposed work as part of the renovation application.

2. Replacing Floor Finishes

Flooring is another area where homeowners often assume that no permit is necessary. HDB's guidelines distinguish between different types of flooring work.

For example, laying vinyl, carpet or linoleum does not require a permit. However, replacement of certain floor finishes, including ceramic, homogeneous, terrazzo, marble, parquet/timber and other tiles, is subject to approval and specific technical conditions.

For applicable floor replacement works, HDB specifies requirements such as:

• The combined thickness of the floor finish and screed must not exceed 50mm.

• Appropriate waterproofing requirements must be followed in bathrooms and toilets.

• Waterproofing requirements also apply to relevant kitchen and open-balcony areas.

• Appropriate floor trap grating must be used.

• The required minimum parapet or window sill height must be maintained where applicable.

This is particularly important when replacing existing tiles with new flooring because the additional floor thickness can affect levels, doors and other elements of the home.

3. Bathroom and Toilet Renovation

Bathrooms and toilets require particular attention because renovation work can affect waterproofing and neighbouring units.

For example, if existing bathroom or toilet floor finishes are removed and replaced, the applicable waterproofing requirements must be followed.

HDB's guidelines specify the use of pre-packed waterproofing screed and waterproofing membrane for applicable bathroom and toilet floor-finishing works. The membrane must also be appropriately upturned against walls, kerbs and pipes.

What about a new BTO?

Newly completed flats may have additional restrictions. HDB states that newly built flats have a 3-year restriction period on the removal of wall and floor finishes in bathrooms and toilets.

This is something BTO homeowners should check before planning a bathroom renovation.

4. Enlarging a Bathroom or Toilet

Want a bigger bathroom? This is not simply a matter of removing a wall and extending the space.

HDB guidelines allow certain bathroom or toilet enlargement works after the applicable restriction period, subject to specific limits.

For example, HDB states that enlargement after the first three years from completion of the block is subject to a maximum width of 600mm and maximum area of 0.6m², and the extension can only be used as a dry area.

Because bathroom enlargement involves building and waterproofing considerations, homeowners should have the proposed layout checked before committing to the design.

5. Kitchen Layout Changes

Kitchen renovation is one of the most common renovation projects in Singapore.

Changing cabinets, countertops and finishes is generally different from changing the physical layout of the kitchen.

If your renovation involves altering walls, flooring, plumbing or other regulated building elements, additional HDB requirements may apply.

Before finalising your kitchen design, check:

• Whether any walls are being removed

• Whether new openings are being created

• Whether flooring is being replaced

• Whether plumbing points are being relocated

• Whether electrical loading is sufficient

• Whether the proposed work affects any restricted area

A good renovation plan should consider these requirements during the design stage rather than after the quotation has been signed.

What Renovation Works Can Usually Be Done Without a Permit?

Some renovation works do not require HDB approval when they comply with the applicable guidelines.

Examples may include:

Painting

Painting walls is generally a straightforward renovation activity that does not require an HDB renovation permit.

Wallpaper and Decorative Wall Finishes

Certain wall finishes, including wallpaper and some finishes applied over existing surfaces, can be installed without a permit when the applicable requirements are followed.

Certain Carpentry Works

Built-in carpentry such as wardrobes, kitchen cabinets and TV consoles generally does not involve the type of structural alteration that requires an HDB renovation permit.

However, the installation method should still avoid tampering with structural elements and other building components.

Vinyl Flooring

HDB's current building-work guidelines state that laying vinyl finishes, carpet or linoleum does not require a permit.

The key takeaway is: No permit required does not mean no renovation rules apply.

What Renovation Work Is Not Allowed?

Some works are prohibited or heavily restricted because they can affect structural integrity, common property or building safety.

Homeowners should not:

• Hack or alter reinforced concrete structural elements

• Carry out unauthorised wall demolition

• Tamper with structural beams or slabs

• Modify common property

• Carry out renovation works that breach HDB's technical requirements

• Start approval-required works before receiving the necessary approval

HDB specifically warns homeowners not to instruct workers to carry out demolition or hacking works that have not received HDB's written approval. If unauthorised works are discovered, HDB may require reinstatement.

What Happens If You Renovate Without the Required Approval?

Starting renovation work without the necessary approval can create unnecessary problems.

Depending on the situation, HDB may require the homeowner to:

• Stop the renovation work

• Remove unauthorised work

• Reinstate the flat

• Correct work that does not comply with HDB guidelines

HDB also states that breaches of the Housing & Development (Renovation Control) Rules can result in penalties, including fines of up to $5,000 upon conviction. This is why it is better to confirm the requirements before work begins.

How to Check Your HDB Renovation Restrictions

Not every HDB flat has exactly the same renovation considerations. HDB provides an online service that allows homeowners to check renovation guidelines and restrictions specific to their HDB block.

You can search using your:

• Block number

• Street name

• Precinct name

This is particularly useful before planning major renovation works.

Plan Your HDB Renovation With Confidence

Renovating an HDB flat involves more than choosing colours, materials and furniture.

A well-planned renovation should consider HDB requirements, structural limitations, waterproofing, electrical works, plumbing, renovation timing and the practical needs of your household from the beginning.

The best time to check renovation requirements is before the design is finalised and before work starts.

At E+e Design & Build, we believe a good renovation should combine thoughtful design with proper planning and workmanship. From space planning and material selection to renovation coordination, understanding the requirements early can help homeowners avoid unnecessary delays and unexpected issues.

If you are planning an HDB renovation in Singapore, speak to our team to discuss your home, renovation requirements and design ideas.