Debated in Parliament on 14 Jan 2026.
Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for National Development in view of the findings from the recent HDB Sample Household Survey (a) what design improvements will be implemented in new HDB estates to enhance privacy within flats, optimise flat sizes and mitigate traffic noise; and (b) what measures will be taken to address declining satisfaction levels regarding noise and cleanliness in existing HDB estates.
The Sample Household Survey is conducted every five years, to better understand residents' changing needs and improve the public housing experience. Over 7,000 households across Singapore participated in the 2023/2024 survey. Based on the survey, more than nine in 10 households were satisfied with their flat, neighbourhood and estate facilities.
On flat sizes and privacy within flat, around nine in 10 households expressed satisfaction. The Housing and Development Board (HDB) will continue to offer various flat types from 2-room Flexi to 3-Generation flats to meet the different needs of flat buyers. To enhance privacy, HDB ensures adequate spacing between blocks, designs flats with windows facing external landscapes rather than corridors and incorporates features, such as frosted glass panels for toilets and visual screens along common corridors.
For noise and cleanliness, three in four households expressed satisfaction, similar to the 2018 survey. Blocks near major roads and mass rapid transit tracks are orientated away from noise sources where possible. Town Councils are responsible for the cleanliness of their estates and the Ministry of National Development (MND) publishes an annual report on their performance.
MND and HDB will continue to improve the living environment for our residents, to maintain a high satisfaction level in public housing.
PAPERCUTS