Home Improvement Programme

In August 2007, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in his National Day Rally speech introduced the HIP which would replace the Main Upgrading Programme which started from 1990. In 2018, the government expanded HIP to include 230,000 flats built between 1987 and 1997, broadening the programme’s reach and bringing the total number of eligible flats to over 550,000. These include wider toilet entrances for wheelchair users and foldable shower seats. The initiative was part of broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for seniors, alongside other infrastructure upgrades like the installation of more rest points, shelters, and improved safety measures along frequently used walkways and streets. By this time, HIP had upgraded over 370,000 flats, with a total investment of more than S$4 billion since the programme’s inception. == Future plans ==

HIP II is planned to provide a second round of upgrades to flats that are 60 to 70 years old, ensuring they remain safe and livable throughout their 99-year lease. HIP II will focus on addressing any structural wear and tear that may have developed since the first round of upgrades, as well as incorporating newer technologies and features in line with evolving housing needs. == Process of HIP ==

HIP follows a structured, resident-driven process that ensures upgrades are efficiently carried out while minimising disruption to daily life. The process emphasises transparency, thorough pre-construction assessments, and active resident participation. Precincts are selected based on the age of the flats (typically those that are at least 30 years old) and their maintenance needs. Flats that have not yet undergone major upgrading works or have recurring maintenance issues, such as spalling concrete or outdated infrastructure, are prioritised. Once a precinct is selected, HDB publicly announces it and notifies residents through official letters detailing the proposed improvements and the next steps. HDB will then conduct informational surveys and holds mini exhibitions before polling. These exhibitions showcase the optional improvements available to residents, such as modernised toilets, new entrance doors, and retractable clothes drying racks. The exhibitions allow residents to view mock-ups of the proposed improvements, interact with HDB officers, and ask questions, helping them make informed decisions ahead of the polling process. Once the mini exhibition is completed, HDB issues an official Polling Notice to all eligible households within the precinct on voting for the HIP works. The polling process takes place over three to four days, and residents can cast their votes either in person at polling centres or online. For HIP to proceed, at least 75% of the households in the block must vote in favour. Households will be notified of the polling results within two weeks after the polling ended. If the HIP failed to proceed, the block would still be eligible for HIP in the future. If voted in favour of the HIP, residents are given six weeks to select optional improvements and EASE modifications. They can make their selections either in person at Information Centres set up near the precinct or online. Optional improvements include modernised toilets, fire-rated doors, and retractable clothes drying racks. EASE modifications, such as grab bars and ramps, are offered to elderly residents. Before construction begins, HDB conducts a condition survey to assess the current state of each flat and identify any repairs that need to be made. Additionally, for residents opting out of toilet upgrades, a water test is required to ensure there are no leaks that could affect the flat below. If the toilet fails the water test, the toilet upgrading becomes mandatory. Approximately four months after the polling process, the upgrading works commence. Upgrading works are expected to be completed in 10 working days. Once the works are completed, HDB conducts a final inspection to ensure all improvements meet quality standards. Residents are encouraged to inspect their flats and report any defects during the one-year Defect Liability Period, during which contractors will fix any issues free of charge. After the completion of all upgrading works, HDB sends an invoice detailing each household’s cost for optional improvements. Payment is required only after the works have been completed. Residents can pay via CPF, cash, or through a flexible instalment plan. HDB offers financial assistance for low-income households and senior citizens, ensuring affordability ==Scope of Works==

Sources: These essential upgrades are crucial for keeping older HDB flats in line with modern safety standards and providing a safe and comfortable living environment for all residents. Optional Improvements In addition to the essential improvements, residents can opt for a variety of optional enhancements, which are heavily subsidised by the government. While residents are required to co-pay for these improvements, the government bears a significant portion of the cost. Optional improvements allow for increased comfort, safety, and aesthetic appeal, and they include: • Toilet Upgrades: Residents can modernise their toilets with upgraded sanitary fittings, larger tiles for both the floor and walls, and better waterproofing systems. This option helps prevent leaks, which can damage flats below. If residents choose not to upgrade their toilets, the existing fixtures must pass a water leak test to ensure there are no leaks. • Replacement of Entrance Doors: Residents may replace their old entrance doors with new fire-rated doors, designed to withstand high temperatures and comply with current fire safety standards. For flats that do not require fire-rated doors, non-fire-rated alternatives are available. The installation of a Home Fire Alarm Device (HFAD) may also be included as part of this improvement. • New Grille Gates: Modern steel gates equipped with thumb-turn knobs for easy unlocking from the inside are available as an optional improvement. These provide enhanced security and greater convenience for residents. • Replacement of Refuse Hopper Covers: Older refuse hopper covers that contribute to odour and pest issues can be replaced with newer, more hygienic models. This optional upgrade is aimed at improving the overall cleanliness and living conditions in the block. • Retractable Clothes Drying Racks: Traditional bamboo pole holders can be replaced with modern retractable racks featuring stainless steel poles. These racks can be extended and retracted easily, offering a safer and more convenient way for residents to dry clothes, especially for elderly residents who may find the old system difficult to use. Residents who opt for these optional improvements benefit from government subsidies, with their co-payment depending on their flat type. The following table outlines the cost-sharing ratios and estimated costs for the optional improvement package: • These estimates are based on HIP projects that began polling after 30 March 2020 and include 9% GST. The final amount will be determined after the completion of the upgrading works. == Financial Assistance ==

For households that may struggle with payment, HDB offers several assistance schemes. Residents earning a monthly household income of less than S$2,000 can extend their payment period for up to 25 years. Elderly residents aged 55 and above can defer their payments until the flat is sold or transferred, subject to specific CPF guidelines. In cases of financial hardship, HDB may allow for a deferment of payment, with interest, subject to an annual review. Residents in need of financial assistance can also visit here for more details and information. ==Impact on Residents: Noise, Dust and Inconvenience==

Sources: Although HIP significantly enhances the living conditions in older flats, the construction phase can create temporary disruptions for residents. These disturbances, while unavoidable, are managed through a series of measures aimed at minimising the impact. • Noise Control: To reduce the noise caused by hacking, drilling, and other construction activities, contractors use specialised equipment such as dust extractors and noise-reducing tools. Smaller breakers are deployed where feasible to lower the intensity of the noise. • Dust Management: Dust screens are installed around the construction site, and contractors clean the workspace regularly to control dust accumulation. Residents are provided with dust proof materials, such as protective covers, to safeguard their furniture and belongings. • Furniture Protection: To prevent damage during the renovation, contractors lay vinyl or rubber sheets on the floor to protect tiles. Residents are also advised to secure their valuables and electronics, ensuring they are not affected by the construction work. • Air-Conditioned Rest Areas: To provide a quiet and comfortable environment away from the noise and dust of construction, air-conditioned rest areas equipped with Wi-Fi and study spaces are set up at the void deck. == Common Challenges and Solutions during HIP ==

Even with careful planning, challenges may arise during the HIP construction process. To address these issues, HDB and contractors collaborate closely with residents to provide solutions: • Scheduling Conflicts: Some residents may have conflicting schedules due to work, travel, or personal commitments. In such cases, HDB offers flexibility in adjusting construction schedules to accommodate residents’ availability where possible. • Accessibility Issues for Elderly Residents: Elderly residents may find it challenging to navigate around the construction area. To address this, HDB provides temporary ramps and mobility aids to ensure that seniors can move around safely and comfortably during the renovation period. • Coordination with Multiple Contractors: With various contractors handling different parts of the HIP process, communication and coordination are crucial. To streamline the process, HDB appoints a Public Relations Officer (PRO) who serves as a point of contact between residents and contractors, ensuring smooth communication and a quick resolution to any issues that may arise. == Technological Advancements in HIP ==

Over the years, HIP has embraced various technological innovations that not only enhance the efficiency and quality of the construction process but also minimise disruption to residents. These advancements reflect a commitment to addressing the needs of ageing flats in a sustainable, cost-effective manner. Introduction of the Corrosion-Resistant Repair (CRR) Method Source: One of the most notable technological developments in HIP is the Corrosion-Resistant Repair (CRR) Method, which was introduced in 2021 to tackle the persistent issue of spalling concrete, particularly in toilet ceilings. Spalling concrete is caused by the corrosion of steel reinforcement bars within the ceiling, exacerbated by Singapore's humid climate. The CRR method consists of: • Anti-Corrosion Coating: The steel bars in the ceiling are treated with a specialised anti-corrosion coating, protecting them from moisture and corrosive elements, which significantly reduces the likelihood of future corrosion. • Protective Ceiling Layer: A protective layer is applied over the ceiling after the steel reinforcement has been treated, enhancing its durability and preventing further spalling. • Bonding Agents: Advanced bonding agents are used to secure the new layers to the existing ceiling structure, ensuring the repair is long-lasting. This innovative method was trialled in 2021 in over 300 flats and has since become a standard technique in HIP for managing spalling concrete, one of the most common maintenance issues in ageing HDB flats. Upgraded Fire Safety Features Source: As part of HIP, fire safety features have been modernised in line with current safety regulations. One key improvement is the inclusion of fire-rated doors as an optional upgrade. These doors are designed to withstand high temperatures and offer critical protection during a fire. Another advancement is the installation of the Home Fire Alarm Device (HFAD), which is aligned with the Singapore Civil Defence Force fire safety standards. Key features of the fire-rated doors include: • Heat Resistance: These doors are engineered to delay the spread of fire, providing residents with additional time to evacuate safely during an emergency. • Durability: Fire-rated doors are made from materials that are more resistant to wear and tear, offering enhanced longevity in addition to fire safety. Enhanced Locking Mechanism: Modern locking mechanisms provide both improved security and fire protection for residents. Retractable clothes drying racks HIP had also included installation of retractable clothes drying racks which are safer and more convenient. The drying racks are fitted with stainless steel poles that can be easily extended or retracted, allowing residents to hang laundry without needing to reach outside windows, as was required with the older bamboo pole holders. The drying racks are designed to withstand Singapore’s humid climate and require minimal maintenance. Use of Augmented Reality To make the decision-making process easier for residents, HDB introduced Augmented Reality (AR) technology through the Mobile@HDB app. This tool allows residents to visualise and virtually place various HIP improvement options, such as grab bars, ramps, and doors, within their flats. With the use of the AR, residents can see how optional improvements would look in their homes before making a decision, helping them select the upgrades that best suit their needs. As the tool can be accessed from home, allowing residents to make informed decisions within their homes. == Criticism ==

The programme has sparked some political debate regarding priority, which has traditionally been given to wards held by the ruling People's Action Party. When asked why opposition wards are penalised by the statutory board at a National University of Singapore student forum in 2011, then Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong responded, "The answer is that there has to be a distinction. Because the PAP wards supported the Government and the policies which delivered these good things.” Re-polls In 2025, two HDB blocks, out of 29, in Tiong Bahru failed to get enough votes for HIP to proceed. As the two blocks of four-storey walk-up flats, previously built by the Singapore Improvement Trust, had only 15 and 24 households, the 11 and 16 votes were not enough to pass the threshold for HIP to proceed. A preliminary poll conducted in 2019 that 10 blocks out of the 29 would fail the 75 percent threshold and hence no poll was conducted. Another preliminary poll conducted in early 2025 indicated all 29 blocks would pass the threshold and the HIP poll was conducted. On 4 December, Member of Parliament Foo Cexiang, who was in charge of the Tiong Bahru ward under the Tanjong Pagar Group Representation Constituency, said he would ask for a re-poll if there were sufficient support and would speak to households who did not vote for the HIP works. ==References==