11 Housing Rules | HDB Vs Private

 
In Singapore, it’s often said that rules govern many aspects of life. Whether you live in an HDB flat, a private condominium, or a landed property, there are certain regulations you need to follow. These regulations ensure a harmonious living environment in one of the most densely populated cities in the world. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the different rules and regulations that homeowners need to be aware of, including some recent changes that have come into effect.

1. Pet Ownership Rules

Good news for animal lovers! From September 2024, HDB owners can now keep up to two cats and one dog in their homes. This is a significant change from previous rules that prohibited cats in HDB flats. The reason behind the previous ban was concerns over issues like fur shedding, noise, and hygiene, but after much advocacy, the government has relaxed the rules, allowing families to have cats, provided they are well cared for.

On the other hand, private property owners can keep up to three pets, and there is flexibility in choosing the combination of cats and dogs. The change represents a step towards more inclusive pet ownership in both HDB and private housing sectors.

2. Lifts and Elevators

HDB owners are not allowed to install their own private lifts in their homes. Due to the structural design of HDB flats, retrofitting such features would pose significant challenges and safety concerns. However, if you live in a landed property, you can install a lift, provided you meet the requirements set by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA). Landed property owners who wish to install lifts must comply with the safety guidelines to ensure the installation is secure and does not pose any risks to residents or neighbors.

3. Renovation Restrictions for HDB Resale Flats

For those buying resale HDB flats, there’s a restriction on when you can start renovations. As of April 2024, homeowners can only begin renovation works after the completion of the purchase, which means no early renovation agreements with the previous owner. This rule ensures that the process is streamlined and that any changes made are in accordance with regulations. On the other hand, private property buyers can make private arrangements with owners, allowing them to start renovations before officially moving in, offering more flexibility.

4. Fish Tank Weight Limits in HDB Flats

For fish enthusiasts, there’s a limit on how large your fish tank can be if you live in an HDB flat. The maximum allowable weight for a fish tank is 600kg per room. Anything larger than that, such as a 1000kg tank, requires you to move to a landed property. The weight limit is in place to prevent structural damage to the building, as a tank that is too heavy could potentially compromise the integrity of the floor.

5. Renting Out Your HDB: The 5-Year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP)

One of the most well-known rules for HDB homeowners is the 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP). During this period, homeowners are not allowed to rent out the entire flat, although room rentals are permitted as long as the homeowner physically stays in one of the bedrooms. This rule ensures that HDB flats, which are subsidized public housing, are primarily used for owner occupation and not for speculative purposes. In contrast, private property owners are not subject to this restriction, and they can rent out their entire property at any time.

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6. CCTV Installation Restrictions

Security is a concern for many homeowners, but there are rules regarding the installation of CCTV cameras. For HDB flats and condos, you cannot install CCTV cameras outside your home without first obtaining a permit from the Management Corporation Strata Title (MCST) or the town council. This is to maintain the privacy of others in the building and to prevent unnecessary surveillance. However, landed property owners are allowed to install CCTV cameras outside their homes without needing to obtain any special permits.

7. Exterior Painting Restrictions

If you live in an HDB flat or a condo, you are not allowed to paint the exterior of your home, even if you want to use the same color. The exterior façade of these buildings is considered common property, and uniformity is required to maintain the aesthetic harmony of the building. In contrast, if you own a landed property, you are free to paint your house any color you want — even a rainbow if you feel like it.

8. House Moving Time Slots for Condominiums

One area where condo living can be less convenient compared to HDB or landed property living is when it comes to moving house. If you live in a condo, you will need to apply for a permit from your condo management for your move, and this is usually restricted to certain time slots, typically between 5 and 6 p.m. on weekdays. This is to minimize disruption to other residents. On the other hand, if you live in an HDB flat or a landed property, you are free to move house at any time without needing to apply for a permit, although it’s still important to be considerate of your neighbors and avoid causing disturbances late at night.

9. Main Door Restrictions

When it comes to changing the main door of your home, different rules apply depending on where you live. For HDB flats, if your main door is a fire-rated door, you are not allowed to change it without approval, as this could compromise safety standards. However, if the door is not fire-rated, you are free to change it to any door you like. Condo owners also need to seek approval before changing their main door, ensuring that any modifications comply with the building’s regulations. In contrast, landed property owners are free to change their main door without any restrictions.

10. Window Design Changes

In HDB flats, if you have a full-height window, you are not allowed to change its design as it forms part of the external structure. However, if you have short-height windows, you can change them to suit your preferences. Similarly, condo owners cannot change their window designs without first getting approval from the management, as any changes might affect the overall look and safety of the building. Once again, landed property owners enjoy more freedom in this regard and can modify their windows without needing approval.

11. Enforcing the 5-Year MOP

As mentioned earlier, HDB homeowners are required to live in their flat for a minimum of five years to fulfill the MOP. Recently, there have been cases of homeowners trying to sell their flats without ever living in them, essentially treating them as investment properties. The government has cracked down on such cases, and penalties are imposed on those who violate the MOP rules. This rule emphasizes the importance of using HDB flats for genuine living purposes rather than speculation. Private property owners, however, are not bound by any such restrictions.

Bonus: Public Decency Laws in Your Home

Finally, a unique rule that applies to all homeowners — whether you live in an HDB flat, condo, or landed property — is that you cannot walk around your home naked if there is a chance that your neighbors could see you. While this may seem surprising to some, it’s part of Singapore’s public decency laws. So, make sure to keep your curtains drawn if you prefer to walk around your home unclothed.

Conclusion

Living in Singapore, whether in an HDB, a condo, or a landed property, comes with its own set of rules and regulations. These house rules are designed to ensure safety, maintain the aesthetics of buildings, and promote a harmonious living environment for all. While private property owners may enjoy more flexibility in certain areas, HDB homeowners also benefit from a structured and well-regulated system that supports community living. Whether you’re a current homeowner or looking to buy property in Singapore, it’s essential to understand and follow these rules to avoid any legal or social complications.