HDB renovation guidelines: what you can and can't do
HDB’s renovation guidelines decide what you can change in your flat, what needs a permit, and when work can happen. Here are the rules that matter most when planning.
Updated 26 October 2026
In short: HDB requires all renovation to be done by a contractor on its Directory of Renovation Contractors. Works such as hacking walls, raising floor levels beyond the allowed limit and replacing certain windows need HDB's approval first. Structural elements can't be touched, bathroom floors have a 3-year rule, and noisy works are limited to 9am–5pm on weekdays.
In this guide
The rules that apply to every renovation
- Use an HDB-registered contractor: renovation in HDB flats must be done by a contractor listed in HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC). See how to check a DRC contractor.
- Structure is off-limits: reinforced concrete walls, columns, beams and slabs that form the structure must not be tampered with.
- Keep to the hours: noisy works only 9am–5pm on weekdays. See HDB renovation timing.
- Notify neighbours: at least three days before work starts.
Works that need HDB approval first
| Work | What the guidelines say |
|---|---|
| Hacking or demolishing walls | All wall demolition, full or partial, needs HDB’s prior written approval |
| Non-load-bearing RC walls | Need approval and a Professional Engineer to supervise demolition |
| Raising floor levels | Raising floors beyond the allowed limit, including finishes, needs approval |
| Certain windows and grilles | Replacing full-height, 3/4-height or bay windows, and changing service yard or balcony windows, are permit items |
This isn’t a complete list. Your HDB-registered contractor checks your specific works against the current guidelines and applies for the permit.
Floors and bathrooms
- Overlaying new finishes on an existing floor is allowed within HDB’s thickness limit, using adhesive, where there is only one existing layer.
- Bathroom floor finishes can only be replaced after three years from the block’s completion, with the new floor waterproofed to HDB’s conditions.
- Before that, you can overlay new tiles on the existing bathroom tiles instead of hacking them.
Thinking about a seamless floor? See epoxy flooring for HDB flats and toilets.
Walls: what can be removed
Lightweight walls such as hollow block, brick and drywall can usually be removed with approval, but only up to the underside of the beam above. The beam stays, so plan ceilings around it. Full detail is in the HDB renovation permit guide.
Aircon and electrical
For new BTO flats, installing an aircon compressor on the ledge doesn’t need a permit, but changing the ledge’s use or adding external grilles does. Older flats may need approval before adding units that require new high-load power points.
What happens if you break the rules
HDB can require you to reinstate the flat to its original condition at your own cost, and unauthorised works can be prosecuted. Getting approvals in place before work starts is far cheaper than undoing it.
Sources: HDB renovation information, HDB building works guidelines. Rules can change, so check HDB’s current guidelines or ask your HDB-registered contractor before starting.
Related guides
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Questions we get asked
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Do I need a permit to renovate my HDB flat?
Not for all works, but hacking walls, raising floor levels beyond the limit and replacing certain windows need HDB’s approval. All works must be done by an HDB-registered contractor.
Can I hack any wall in my HDB flat?
No. Structural walls can’t be removed. Lightweight walls can usually be removed with approval, up to the underside of the beam.
Can I change my bathroom tiles in a new BTO?
Bathroom floor finishes can only be replaced after three years from the block’s completion. You can overlay new tiles before that.
Who applies for the HDB renovation permit?
Your HDB-registered renovation contractor applies, and you sign the acknowledgement form as the owner.
Want a price for your unit?
We’ll reply with an initial estimate and a time for a free site survey.