Disputes between HDB Flat Neighbours Arising from Air-conditioning Related Condensation and Mould Growth

Ms Carrie Tan asked the Minister for National Development (a) in each year in the past five years, how many dispute cases arising from overuse of air-conditioning in HDB flats causing condensation and mould disamenities to neighbours does HDB receive; (b) beyond referring the disputing parties to the Community Mediation Centre, whether HDB is looking to enhance regulations to prevent or enforce against indiscriminate use of air-conditioning in HDB flats that causes disamenity to others; and (c) if not, why not.

Between 2018 and 2022, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) received an average of 715 cases of feedback per year on air-conditioning related condensation.

Upon receipt of the feedback, HDB will carry out inspection to determine the source of the condensation. One of the common causes of air-conditioner condensation includes the use of air conditioner at prolonged low temperature with the air outlet louvres set to non-oscillating mode. HDB will also advise both flat owners of the actions that they can take to resolve the issue, such as setting the louvres to oscillating mode to minimise the concentration of cold air at a particular location and for the affected flat owners to keep their units well-ventilated to minimise mould growth.

It would not be appropriate for HDB to regulate home owners’ usage of air conditioning. Instead, HDB plays an advisory role  and will encourage parties to practise mutual respect and neighbourliness. If warranted, HDB may advise the parties to seek mediation at the Community Mediation Centre, which will guide the neighbours to have a better appreciation of the issue and the impact of their behaviour on the other party. As a last resort, the aggrieved parties may also file a case with the Community Disputes Resolution Tribunal.