Allowing 2-Room HDB Flat Owners in Financial Difficulty to Rent Out Bedrooms

Ms Poh Li San asked the Minister for National Development whether the Ministry will consider allowing owners of two-room HDB flats to rent out their bedrooms if they are unable to work and are in financial difficulties.

Mr Desmond Lee: Flat owners must reside in their Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat when renting out spare bedroom(s) in their flat. For 2-room HDB flats, as there is only one bedroom, there is no spare bedroom that can be rented out.

Nevertheless, we recognise that some 2-room HDB flat owners may need to rent out their bedroom, if they are facing financial hardship. HDB considers such appeals on a case-by-case basis and is prepared to grant approval, provided that the flat owners can demonstrate that they have made suitable living arrangements with potential tenants within the flat.