Monitoring Frequency and Severity of Recurring Water Leakage in HDB Flats and Prevention Measures

Dr Charlene Chen asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry monitors their frequency and severity of recurring water leakages in HDB flats; (b) what measures does HDB have in place to address persistent cases; and (c) what long-term solutions are planned to address this issue.

Water seepage may occur in the Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats due to wear and tear over time. Flat owners and Town Councils (TCs) are responsible for the maintenance of the interior of flats and external walls respectively. HDB assists residents and TCs to address complex and recurring cases.

For example, HDB supports the TCs by carrying out joint inspections and providing technical advice on necessary tests or repairs. In addition, for flat owners who need assistance, HDB co-pays 50% of the repair cost through the Goodwill Repair Assistance scheme, with the remaining 50% shared equally between the upper- and lower-floor flat owners.

HDB is currently studying the use of technologies, such as microwave scanning, which can scan through concrete to detect and trace sources of seepage. This can help flat owners and TCs to more effectively diagnose and resolve complex water seepage cases upfront.