Hoarding in HDB Flats

Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many cases of excessive hoarding in HDB flats did the Ministry receive for the past three years; (b) what is the action taken by HDB for all these cases; and (c) whether such action by HDB has been effective.

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Mr Khaw Boon Wan: From 2009 to 2011, HDB received 57 cases of feedback on hoarding in the flats.

Upon receiving feedback, HDB will carry out site inspections. Where there has been excessive hoarding, HDB will advise the residents to remove the items that are fire hazards, and to keep their flats tidy. Generally, the residents have been cooperative.

For some residents, compulsive hoarding is a behavioural problem. They may require professional help. In such cases, HDB will bring in the local social workers, grassroots leaders and even the Singapore Civil Defence Force to render appropriate counselling.

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