HDB Renovation Rules 2026: Permits, Hours & Noise Limits

Renovating an HDB flat comes with specific contractor, permit and noise rules. HDB requires flat owners to use contractors listed in its Directory of Renovation Contractors for regulated renovation works and places tighter limits on noisy demolition and drilling.

Do you need an HDB-approved contractor?

For renovation works covered by HDB’s rules, owners must engage a contractor from the Directory of Renovation Contractors. HDB states that breaches can lead to enforcement action and fines.

What are the general renovation hours?

General renovation work is allowed from 9am to 6pm on weekdays and Saturdays. Renovation work is not allowed on Sundays and public holidays.

When can noisy works be done?

Restricted noisy works such as demolishing walls, removing wall or floor finishes, cutting tiles and heavy drilling are limited to 9am to 5pm on weekdays. They are not allowed on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays or the eves of specified major public holidays.

How long can demolition works run?

HDB says demolition of walls and removal of wall or floor finishes must not take more than three consecutive days.

How long is a renovation permit valid?

Approved renovations generally need to be completed within three months for newly completed blocks and within one month for existing blocks. Window works have a shorter two-week period.

Do you need to tell your neighbours?

HDB advises owners to give written notice to neighbours within a radius of two units at least five days before renovation begins and to display the Notice of Renovation outside the flat.

What flat owners remain responsible for

Hiring a contractor does not transfer responsibility for compliance away from the flat owner. HDB states that owners are responsible for ensuring renovation works follow its guidelines, and the Notice of Renovation should remain displayed outside the flat while approved works are being carried out.

HDB also makes clear that it is not a party to the private renovation agreement between an owner and contractor. Pricing, workmanship and other contractual disputes therefore need to be handled between the parties rather than treated as an HDB dispute-resolution process.

Other noise and tool limits to know

For restricted noisy works, the weekday-only rule is only part of the restriction. HDB says these works are also not allowed on the eves of New Year's Day, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Hari Raya Puasa and Christmas Day. At any one time, only two HDB-approved handheld power tools, or their equivalent, may be used.

DIY work has a different practical guideline: HDB asks residents to keep drilling and hammering outside the 10.30pm to 7am quiet period and to minimise disturbance. That does not override the stricter rules that apply to regulated contractor renovation work.

Checklist before renovation starts

• Confirm the contractor is in HDB's Directory of Renovation Contractors where required.
• Obtain the necessary HDB renovation permit before approved works begin.
• Give written notice to neighbours within two units at least five days in advance.
• Display the Notice of Renovation outside the flat throughout the approved works.
• Schedule demolition, tile cutting and heavy drilling only within the permitted weekday window.
• Plan debris and bulky-item removal instead of leaving waste in shared areas.

Clearing old furniture or appliances before works? Use our bulky-item disposal guide and e-waste recycling guide .