Installation of Awnings to Existing HDB Flats in Nee Soon East

Mr Patrick Tay Teck Guan asked the Minister for National Development whether HDB can install awnings to existing HDB flats as heavy rains and winds have resulted in water splashing into the units and front passageways of these flats in Nee Soon East.

In designing new flats, Housing and Development Board (HDB) takes into account the need for weather protection, and has provided canopies above windows and along corridors to reduce the impact of rainwater splashing. Typically, flats will also be provided with top-hung windows which can be opened during rain to allow for natural ventilation. In doing so, HDB balances between shielding the rain off completely and achieving good natural ventilation/lighting.

In tropical Singapore, it is inevitable that some rainwater may splash into the semi-open areas such as the common corridors, especially during a heavy downpour. To assist residents, HDB provides rain screens along common areas on a case-by-case basis if splashing is severe. HDB also works with residents to install a simple weather strip underneath their entrance doors to prevent rainwater from seeping into the flat and/or to fix a panel onto the gate to minimise splashing onto the main door.