despite similar application rates
The recent Home Improvement Programme (HIP) has selected over 29,000 HDB flats to undergo upgrading works, with a budget of over $407 million allocated for this round, according to a press release by the HDB on Feb 16.
These flats, located in various areas including Bedok, Bukit Batok, Bukit Merah, Bukit Panjang, Chua Chu Kang, Hougang, Jurong West, Pasir Ris, Queenstown, Sengkang, Tampines, Toa Payoh and Woodlands, have been chosen to address common maintenance issues caused by wear and tear in older flats.
Since its introduction in 2007, the HIP has helped 494,000 flats, or nine in 10 eligible flats, with close to 381,000 flats undergoing upgrades, as stated by Minister for National Development Desmond Lee.
The programme covers essential improvements for basic safety needs of residents, such as repairing spalling concrete and ceiling leakages. These essential improvements are fully funded by the government for Singapore citizen households.
In addition, flat owners can opt for optional improvements including upgrades to bathrooms and toilets, new entrance doors and grill gates, and new refuse chute hoppers. These optional improvements are subsidised by the government, with Singapore citizen households paying as low as 5% of the cost depending on the flat type.
Since 2012, the Enhancement for Active Seniors (Ease) programme has been offered as part of the HIP, which allows flat owners to install senior-friendly fittings such as grab bars, ramps, and slip-resistant treatments for toilets and bathroom tiles. The costs for these improvements are covered up to 95% by the government for Singapore citizen households.
According to HDB, the government has allocated approximately $4 billion to the HIP and around $150 million to Ease as of March 31, 2014. This demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the living standards for its citizens. Interested buyers can check out the latest HDB property listings on Ask Buddy to find their dream home.
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