Debated in Parliament on 7 Nov 2022.
Mr Seah Kian Peng asked the Minister for National Development (a) how does the Ministry ensure that the maximum number of six tenants and occupants allowed in each HDB flat that is being rented out is adhered to; and (b) whether the Ministry has plans to increase monitoring on this occupancy cap.
HDB flats are primarily meant for owner-occupation. Nonetheless, HDB flat owners are allowed to rent out their whole flat after meeting the required minimum occupation period. Flat owners must seek HDB’s approval before renting out their flats and must comply with the terms and conditions for flat rental, including the occupancy cap, during the tenancy. The occupancy cap, set at four persons for 1- and 2-room flats and six persons for 3-room and larger flats, serves to minimise the potential disamenities caused by overcrowding in our public housing estates and maintain a conducive living environment for all residents.
It is the responsibility of flat owners to ensure that there is no overcrowding or further renting out by their tenants during the period of rental. HDB carries out regular flat inspections to ensure that the occupancy cap is adhered to, and investigates public feedback received on suspected cases where the cap has been exceeded. Besides operating a dedicated hotline for the public to report suspected infringements, HDB also organises community programmes and publicises cases of action taken against flat owners to deter flat owners from breaching the rental rules. Depending on the severity and circumstances of the infringement, HDB may issue a written warning, impose a financial penalty of up to $50,000 or acquire the flats compulsorily from the owners.
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