Flat Applications Involving Ex-spouses' Disputes over Listing Child as Essential Occupier

Ms Carrie Tan asked the Minister for National Development (a) in the past five years, how many housing purchase applications that involve a dispute between ex-spouses regarding the listing of their child as an essential occupier have been received by HDB; (b) whether HDB refers these applicants to any agency for help with dispute resolution; and (c) what is the course of action recommended by HDB in such cases.

Divorced parents with shared care and control of their child(ren) have an equal right to list their child(ren) in their application to buy or rent an HDB flat. As any individual is only allowed to be listed in one HDB flat application, we require such divorced parents to come to an agreement before either party lists their child(ren) in a flat application.

Those who are unable to reach an agreement with their ex-spouse can approach HDB to discuss their options. From January 2018 to October 2022, HDB received 24 appeals from divorcees who were unable to obtain their ex-spouse's consent to list their child(ren) in a flat application. HDB will review each case and is prepared to exercise flexibility based on individual circumstances, to ensure that both parties have options to provide housing for themselves and their child(ren). HDB may also advise them to approach a Family Service Centre (FSC) for assistance, where needed.