Debated in Parliament on 2 Aug 2022.
Mr Shawn Huang Wei Zhong asked the Minister for National Development what are the design features and materials used by HDB to ensure that HDB flats will continue to be relevant and easy to maintain throughout the lease lifetime.
HDB reviews the design of HDB flats regularly to keep pace with changing demographics, social trends and lifestyle needs. Flats are designed to give residents the flexibility to reconfigure the space in their homes to meet their needs, including working from home. For example, columns in new flats are pushed to the edges wherever possible, to better accommodate different layouts.
HDB also designs with maintainability in mind. This includes ensuring safe and easy access to various parts of a building for regular maintenance, selecting materials and finishes for durability throughout its design lifespan, and ensuring proper architectural design and construction detailing to minimise the occurrence of defects and reduce the need for maintenance.
For example, HDB provides laminated uPVC bathroom and bedroom doors that are more durable and easier to maintain compared to timber doors. Access provisions within HDB estates are also designed for safety, and to provide sufficient circulation and working space for maintenance vehicles and personnel.
Such design features are included in the design and technical guidelines for consultants to adopt. HDB conducts checks on consultants' proposals to ensure compliance. HDB also regularly reviews the design and provision of features when new technology to aid maintenance becomes available, and to take in feedback from Town Councils or residents through post-occupation surveys. Homeowners also have an important role to play by carrying out periodic home care maintenance given the long lease period of their homes.
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