HDB Commercial Unit Tenants Engaging in Additional Trades Aside from Those Specified in Tenancy Agreement

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether tenants of HDB commercial units are allowed to engage in additional complementary trades aside from those specified in the tenancy agreement during their existing term without having to submit a separate application to do so; and (b) if not, whether HDB can consider exercising greater flexibility for such change of trades restrictions to enable businesses to more nimbly meet consumer demands.

Mr Desmond Lee: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) carefully plans for the provision of commercial amenities in HDB estates to ensure a balanced trade mix, providing residents with access to essential goods and services while minimising potential disamenities.

All tenants must fulfil the conditions stated in their respective tenancy agreements, including the specific trade they are allowed to operate. During the first tenancy which is awarded through open tender, tenants are not allowed to change their trade, to be fair to other bidders who had submitted bids based on the trade specified in the tender. During subsequent tenancy periods that are no longer awarded through tender, tenants can seek HDB’s approval if they wish to engage in different or additional trades. HDB will assess such requests on a case-by-case basis, to ensure that the proposed change does not compromise residents’ well-being.