HDB renovation permits and rules for new BTO flats

HDB sets what renovation works need a permit, when you may do DIY, how long a permit lasts, and how the Directory of Renovation Contractors works. This guide summarises those rules for new BTO flats after key collection. Source pages: HDB Important Information on Renovations and Application for a Renovation Permit, checked 4 Nov 2026.

For households collecting keys in late 2026 and early 2027, plan the permit around your own key date. KeyKaki’s tracked projects in that window include Lakeside View (1,016 units), Keat Hong Grange (987), Kent Heights (430), and Woodlands South Plains (630) — 3,063 units in total for those four. Garden Waterfront I @ Tengah is expected by end-2026; HDB hasn’t confirmed the unit count (key-collection dataset, checked 20 Oct 2026).

Which works need a permit?

From HDB’s Important Information on Renovations (checked 4 Nov 2026):

Works that typically need a renovation permit include hacking of wall tiles and floor finishes; replacement of existing floor finishes with marble, ceramic tiles, or other materials; installation of false ceilings and partition walls; and replacement of windows and grilles (subject to HDB’s window and grille rules).

Common works that typically do not need a permit include painting of walls and ceilings; laying of vinyl or laminate floor finishes over existing floors (using adhesives that do not damage the existing floor finishes); and installation of curtains, blinds, and light fixtures.

Always check HDB’s current list — borderline cases can move. For wet areas (kitchen, bathroom, toilet, service yard), HDB states that the installation of floor finishes may be carried out only after three years from the date of completion of the building block. That is a wet-area floor-finishes rule tied to block completion, not a general ban on all renovation for three years.

Can I DIY any renovation?

HDB allows DIY for some works that do not require a permit. DIY hours on HDB’s page are 7:00am to 10:30pm. Outside those hours, DIY is not allowed under that rule. HDB’s page does not list a separate DIY exemption from the Directory of Renovation Contractors.

HDB’s Important Information and Application for a Renovation Permit pages say you need to engage a contractor listed in the Directory of Renovation Contractors for renovations in your flat, including works that do not require HDB’s approval. HDB does not endorse or guarantee the quality of their works. On KeyKaki’s vendor list, 186 of 190 renovation firms that are live on ACRA carry an HDB directory reference (vendor dataset, checked 21 Oct 2026).

How long is a renovation permit valid?

From HDB’s Application for a Renovation Permit page (checked 4 Nov 2026): a renovation permit is valid for 90 days from the date of approval. If works are not completed within that period, you apply for an extension. Exact fees and payment steps are on HDB’s application page — confirm there before you pay.

Restricted hours and other rules

HDB’s restricted renovation works graphic (on Important Information on Renovations) shows:

• Monday–Saturday: 9:00am–6:00pm (no works on Sundays and public holidays)
• Hacking / heavy works: 9:00am–5:00pm, Monday–Friday only

These are not DIY hours. DIY that does not need a permit follows the separate 7:00am–10:30pm window.

Other HDB notes on that page: keep common corridors clear; dispose of debris properly; check window and grille rules before changing them. Your estate’s Town Council may add site rules.

Application steps

1. Confirm whether your works need a permit on HDB’s Important Information on Renovations.
2. Engage a firm from HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors for renovations in the flat.
3. Apply for the renovation permit on HDB’s Application for a Renovation Permit page.
4. Start works only after approval; finish within the 90-day validity or apply for an extension.
5. Follow HDB’s hours for restricted renovation works, and the separate DIY hours where DIY applies.

Also useful: Defect check after keys, CaseTrust and HDB DRC, and BTO renovation budget planner.

Corrections: hello@keykaki.sg