Thinking about upgrading your HDB flat’s doors or installing a new gate? You’re not alone! Many homeowners want a fresh look or improved security, but don’t know where to start. Before you pick your door and gate, it’s important to understand HDB’s renovation rules. Don’t worry — we’ll guide you through everything in simple terms.
Understanding HDB Door & Gate Guidelines
When renovating your home, the entrance of your HDB flat is often overlooked. Yet, your main door and gate are the first things people see and play a big role in your home’s overall look. In Singapore, most residents live in HDB flats, and there are strict rules on how doors and gates can be changed. These rules are designed to keep the building safe, maintain a uniform look across the estate, and ensure fire safety for all residents. HDB has clear rules for door and gate renovations. These rules are in place to ensure:
- Safety first – doors and gates should never block emergency exits.
- Uniformity – keeping your building looking neat and consistent.
Following these rules may sound strict, but it actually saves you time, money, and stress in the long run.
HDB Main Door & Gate Renovation Guidelines – Key Points
1. Painting
- Work: Painting the external side of the main door or the metal grille gate
- Permit Required? No
- Guidelines/Conditions: Not applicable
2. Replacement of Main Entrance Metal Gates
- Permit Required? No
- Guidelines/Conditions:
- Gate width, number of panels, and swing must remain the same as originally provided by HDB.
- Gate swing must not obstruct public escape.
- Units along common corridors: minimum clearance 0.6m from gate to corridor parapet wall.
- Units next to staircases: minimum clearance equal to stair width from gate edge to staircase railing.
- Corner units: gates must not hit neighboring windows.
3. Replacement of Main Entrance Door/Frame along Fire Escape Route
- Permit Required? Yes
- Guidelines/Conditions:
- Door/frame must be half-hour fire-rated.
- Frame must include a self-closing device.
- Door must have an accreditor’s label.
- Home smoke/fire alarm system required as per SCDF FSSD.
- Digital locks must be SS 332/EN 1634-1 certified by a local Certification Body.
4. Replacement of Main Entrance Non-Fire-Rated Door/Frame
- Permit Required? No
- Guidelines/Conditions: Not applicable
5. Replacement of Internal Doors with Ornamental Timber/Plastic Doors
- Permit Required? No
- Guidelines/Conditions: Not applicable
6. Replacement of Door Frames in Prefabricated Flats
- Permit Required? No
- Guidelines/Conditions:
- RC walls cannot be hacked or tampered with.
- Remove old frames using torch cutting or a cutter.
- Apply a waterproofing membrane after removal.
- New frame must fit within the original door opening.
7. Repositioning Internal Door Entrances
- Permit Required? Yes
- Guidelines/Conditions:
- Cannot create new entrances through RC walls.
8. Replacement of Internal Door Frame (Non-Prefabricated Flats)
- Permit Required? No
- Guidelines/Conditions: Not applicable
9. Installation of Sliding Glass or PVC Folding Doors (Bathroom, W.C., Kitchen)
- Permit Required? No
10. Replacement of Study Room Sliding Doors with Swing Doors
- Permit Required? No
Note: This does not apply to sliding or swing doors on the balcony, as window installation there is not allowed.
11. Replacement of study room sliding doors with swing doors:
- Permit Required? No
How to Get Approval
Getting HDB approval may sound complicated, but it’s actually manageable if you follow the steps:
- Check the guidelines – Review HDB’s renovation rules for doors and gates.
- Submit your proposal – Apply through the proper HDB channels with the required details.
- Wait for approval – Once reviewed, HDB will issue the permit.
Order Now and Let Us Take Care of HDB Approval!
The process can feel time-consuming, but when you purchase your main door or gate from a trusted supplier in Singapore, they will often assist with the approval process. This makes it much easier and ensures your renovation complies with HDB rules. For Singapore homeowners, knowing the approval process is key.
Visit the HDB website to check costs and apply easily:
https://www.hdb.gov.sg/residential/living-in-an-hdb-flat/renovation/applying-for-approval
Conclusion
Renovating your HDB flat’s doors or gates can transform your home, but skipping HDB regulations can create bigger headaches than you expect. By understanding the rules, submitting approvals, you can enjoy a safe, stylish, and hassle-free renovation.
Ready to upgrade your HDB doors or gates? Contact our team today for expert guidance from design to installation!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide regarding door and gate renovation guidelines is based on current regulations from the Housing & Development Board (HDB) and relevant Singapore authorities as of the latest update. Rules and requirements may change over time. We strongly recommend referring to the official HDB website or relevant authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.