Proactive Checks of HDB Flats at Henderson Crescent for Repair and Maintenance of Common Issues

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for National Development whether HDB can perform a proactive check of the flats at Henderson Crescent for repair and maintenance of common issues, such as spalling concrete and corroded pipes, outside of the Home Improvement Programme cycle.

Mr Desmond Lee: As flats age, they will experience natural deterioration of building materials, which may lead to spalling concrete and corroded pipes.

Flat owners are responsible for the maintenance of their flats and are encouraged to inspect the ceilings and the fixtures in their flats regularly and to undertake maintenance and repair works where needed.

For flats that are around 30 years old, the Home Improvement Programme (HIP) systematically and proactively addresses common maintenance issues and provides improvements within flats to enhance the living condition of these older flats. Repairs to spalling concrete and structural cracks in flats are covered under HIP.

HDB has developed a comprehensive Home Care Guide which flat owners can access on HDB’s Infoweb. This guide includes maintenance tips, preventive measures, videos and a list of repair contractors whom owners can consider engaging. We encourage flat owners to use this guide to maintain their flats in good condition.

Where necessary, HDB will provide assistance to flat owners to repair spalling concrete issues. Under the Goodwill Repair Assistance scheme, HDB assists flat owners in arranging for repair works and co-pays 50% of the cost of repairs for Singapore Citizen households.