Debated in Parliament on 16 Aug 2016.
Dr Lily Neo asked the Minister for National Development (a) in the past year, how many disputes between co-tenants of HDB rental flats resulted in violence; and (b) whether a review should be carried out to improve the Joint Singles Scheme for the rental of HDB flats.
The Housing and Development Board (HDB) does not keep specific records of disputes among tenants, or whether disputes result in violence. In 2014 and 2015, HDB received 235 requests for a change of tenant due to disputes, out of around 12,000 households under the Joint Singles Scheme (JSS).
For disputes which the tenants cannot settle between themselves, HDB will refer them to seek help from grassroots organisations or the Community Mediation Centre. If mediation fails, one or both parties may still submit separate applications to rent another public rental flat with other eligible persons.
HDB currently has no plans to review the requirement to pair tenants under JSS, as it enables HDB to help as many needy singles as possible to have a roof over their heads, within the limited resources for public housing. Most JSS tenants are able to live together amicably and derive benefit from having company. The key is mutual respect and tolerance.
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