Congratulations on getting the keys to your new HDB flat! 🎉
Before you move in, it’s important to understand what you can renovate, how much it will cost, and what HDB rules apply.
In this guide, adapted and expanded from HDB’s Renovate Your Flat official page, we cover:
- ✅ HDB renovation rules & approvals
- ✅ Renovation cost breakdowns (2025 rates)
- ✅ Timelines for BTO and resale flats
- ✅ Renovation styles & trends in Singapore
- ✅ FAQ based on HDB guidelines
- ✅ Why HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD is the smarter choice
HDB Renovation Rules (What You Can & Cannot Do)
Before starting your renovation, you must know the HDB guidelines.
Works that Require HDB Approval
- Hacking of structural walls
- Replacing floor finishes provided by HDB
- Changing bathroom wall or floor tiles
- Repositioning main entrance door, windows, or structural openings
- Relocating gas pipes
Works that Do Not Require HDB Approval
- Painting walls
- Replacing non-structural internal doors
- Installing built-in wardrobes and cabinets
- Laying laminate/vinyl flooring (if on top of existing finishes)
👉 Always check HDB’s official guidelines or consult an experienced contractor like HDBGROUPRENO.SG to avoid penalties.
Average Renovation Costs in 2025
| Flat Type | Essential Renovation | Mid-Range Renovation | Premium Renovation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Room BTO | $25,000 – $35,000 | $35,000 – $50,000 | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| 4-Room BTO | $30,000 – $45,000 | $45,000 – $65,000 | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| 5-Room BTO | $40,000 – $55,000 | $55,000 – $80,000 | $80,000 – $120,000 |
Cost Breakdown by Category:
- Carpentry (40–50%): Kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, feature walls
- Masonry (15–25%): Tiling, flooring, hacking works
- Electrical & Lighting (10–15%): Extra points, smart switches, lights
- Plumbing (5–10%): Bathroom works, water heater installation
- Painting (5–8%): Whole flat painting & finishing
💡 Tip: With Group Renovation Packages by HDBGROUPRENO.SG, you can save 10–20% on carpentry and bulk works.
Renovation Timeline (BTO vs Resale)
- BTO Renovation Timeline: 8–12 weeks
- Resale Renovation Timeline: 12–16 weeks (due to hacking & repairs)
Step-by-Step Schedule:
- Week 1–2: Design, HDB approvals, site measurement
- Week 3–4: Hacking & masonry works
- Week 5–6: Electrical wiring, plumbing, and ceiling works
- Week 7–9: Carpentry fabrication (wardrobes, kitchen cabinets)
- Week 10–12: Carpentry installation, painting, lighting, handover
Popular HDB Renovation Styles in 2025
- Scandinavian Minimalist: Light wood, white walls, airy spaces
- Japandi: Japanese zen + Scandinavian warmth
- Modern Luxury: Marble tops, statement lighting, bold accents
- Industrial Chic: Cement screed, exposed pipes, black frames
- Eco-Friendly Homes: E0 formaldehyde-free boards, water-saving fixtures
- Smart Homes: IoT lighting, AI-controlled appliances
👉 With HDBGROUPRENO.SG Free 3D Virtual Tours, you can visualise your flat in any style before committing.
Renovation Loan Options
- HDB Renovation Loan (via banks): Up to $30,000, max 5 years repayment, ~3.5–4.5% interest
- Personal Loan: Higher borrowing limit, flexible terms
- Group Renovation Package (HDBGROUPRENO.SG): Lower upfront deposit, bulk savings, milestone payments
Case Study: Tampines GreenEmerald 4-Room BTO (2025 Project)
- Budget: $52,000
- Works: Kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, vinyl flooring, painting, smart lighting
- Timeline: 11 weeks
- Savings: 18% cheaper through Group Reno Package vs individual contractor quotes
Tips for First-Time Homeowners
- ✅ Engage your contractor early (before key collection)
- ✅ Always budget 10–15% extra for unexpected costs
- ✅ Focus on essentials first (kitchen, bathrooms, wardrobes)
- ✅ Use HDB-approved contractors only
- ✅ Consider Group Reno Projects to reduce costs & timeline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I hack walls in my BTO flat?
A: Only non-structural walls, with prior HDB approval.
Q2: How much should I budget for a 4-room BTO in 2025?
A: Around $45,000–65,000, depending on design & materials.
Q3: Can HDB renovation loan cover resale hacking?
A: Yes, but capped at $30,000. Extra costs require savings or personal loan.
Q4: Why is group renovation cheaper?
A: Shared logistics, bulk carpentry, and centralised suppliers lower overall cost.
Q5: Does HDBGROUPRENO.SG handle both BTO & resale?
A: Yes. We specialise in BTO group renovation and resale upgrades.
Why Choose HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD
✅ Group-Buy Savings: Save 10–20% compared to individual renovation
✅ Custom Carpentry: Kitchen cabinets, wardrobes, study desks
✅ Free 3D Virtual Tours: Preview before you confirm
✅ 30+ Years Experience: Direct contractor with proven track record
✅ Transparent Pricing: Clear milestones, no hidden costs
Your HDB flat deserves more than a basic makeover.
👉 Explore Our Ongoing Group Reno Projects
👉 Get a Free 3D Virtual Tour + Quotation
Let HDBGROUPRENO.SG PTE. LTD turn your BTO into a modern, functional, and stylish home — at the best value in Singapore.
