Debated in Parliament on 15 Oct 2025.
Dr Charlene Chen asked the Minister for National Development in light of climate change and rising temperatures (a) what has been the observed impact on the structural condition and appearance of older buildings; and (b) whether such buildings, particularly HDB flats, are experiencing more issues such as spalling concrete, peeling surfaces and mould growth.
A similar question was filed by former Member of Parliament Dr Lim Wee Kiak in February 2023.
As buildings age, wear and tear is expected. Higher heat and more intense rainfall from climate change may result in more cases of spalling concrete, peeling paint, or mould growth.
With regular inspections, timely repairs and adoption of new technologies, our buildings, including Housing and Development Board flats, continue to be structurally safe. The Building and Construction Authority has mandatory inspection regimes to ensure that defects are detected and rectified early. Since 2022, older buildings more than 20 years of age and above 13 metres in height must undergo a façade inspection every seven years. Periodic structural inspections are also required every ten years for all residential buildings. By using technology, such as drones and structural scanners, defects can also be identified more quickly and safely.
Town Councils maintain the building facade by planning and carrying out Repair and Redecoration works, which include repainting and addressing peeling surfaces and mould growth. They may bring forward such works depending on the building’s condition.
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