Strengthening Enforcement against Illegal Subletting of HDB Flats and Private Residential Properties

Mr Gan Thiam Poh asked the Minister for National Development (a) in each of the last five years, what is the number of illegal subletting of HDB flats and private residential properties respectively; and (b) what measures are in place to strengthen enforcement of such offences.

Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats are primarily meant for owner-occupation. Flat owners must obtain HDB's approval prior to renting out their flat.

In the past five years, HDB has taken action against 571 cases of unauthorised renting out of HDB flats or bedrooms. HDB takes a serious view of unauthorised renting out of flats and will take action against the owner. Depending on the severity and circumstances of the infringement, HDB may issue a written warning, impose a financial penalty of up to $50,000 or compulsorily acquire the flat from the owner.

To detect unauthorised renting of flats, HDB conducts inspections and investigates feedback from members of the public on suspected cases. Besides operating a dedicated hotline for the public to report unauthorised renting, HDB also publicises the range of actions that it has taken against flat owners for unauthorised renting, to maintain deterrence.

Owners of private residential properties are not required to seek approval from the authorities before renting out their properties.