HDB Rental Maintenance Rules: Landlord vs Tenant Duties
In Singapore HDB rentals, landlords handle major structural repairs like walls, roofs, and major plumbing/electrical systems, while tenants manage minor upkeep such as light bulbs and doorknobs. This division follows HDB guidelines and tenancy agreements (TAs), ensuring fair repair responsibility and protecting both parties[1]. Homejourney verifies rental listings to help you find properties with clear maintenance rights, prioritizing user safety and trust.
This cluster article dives into HDB Rental Maintenance Rules: Landlord vs Tenant Duties, building on our pillar guide to HDB renting in Singapore. Whether you're a tenant facing a leaky tap or a landlord clarifying tenant repairs, get actionable steps to avoid disputes. At Homejourney, transparency ensures confident decisions—explore verified rentals at Homejourney rental search.
Legal Basis for HDB Rental Maintenance Responsibilities
HDB subletting rules require landlords to maintain the flat's structure and ensure habitability, as per HDB approval conditions[1][6]. Tenants must not cause damage through negligence and handle day-to-day care, outlined in the TA[1]. No specific law mandates divisions, but common practice and HDB bylaws enforce this—failure risks fines up to S$5,000 for landlords[1].
For HDB flats (80% of Singapore residences), landlords verify tenant eligibility and no sub-subletting[1][6]. Landlord maintenance covers essentials like spalling concrete checks and waste pipe replacements every 10 years, aligning with HDB's Home Improvement Programme (HIP)[1]. Tenants enjoy 'quiet enjoyment'—landlords can't enter without reasonable notice[1].
Landlord Duties: What You Must Fix
Structural elements: Walls, floors, ceilings, roof, doors, windows[1]. Major systems: Plumbing (e.g., burst pipes), electrical wiring, waterproofing[1]. HDB-specific: Fire safety (smoke detectors), common area compliance[1]. Utilities setup: Ensure functional water, electricity at handover[1].
Insider tip: In humid estates like Toa Payoh, landlords should schedule annual spalling checks pre-monsoon—HIP subsidises but requires ongoing landlord maintenance[1]. Document everything for IRAS rental income tax compliance. For financing repairs, check Homejourney bank rates.
Tenant Duties: Minor Repairs You Handle
Daily upkeep: Replace light bulbs, batteries in detectors, clean filters[1]. Appliance care: Aircon servicing (S$200-300/year), unclog minor drains[1]. No alterations: Get written consent for nails or paint[1]. Report promptly: Notify within 24-48 hours of issues[1].
Pro tip for tenants: Budget S$50-100/month for tenant repairs in 4-room HDB flats (90 sqm average). Homejourney's aircon services offer vetted pros for compliant upkeep. See related: Tenant Rights for Repairs & Maintenance in Singapore | Homejourney ">Tenant Rights for Repairs & Maintenance in Singapore | Homejourney.
Repair Responsibility Table: Landlord vs Tenant
| Task | Frequency | Landlord | Tenant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light bulbs, doorknobs | As needed | ✓ | |
| Aircon filters, vents | Quarterly | ✓ | |
| Structural leaks, wiring | Annual | ✓ | |
| Smoke detectors | Monthly test | Install | Batteries |
For 2026, expect S$800-1,500 annual costs for 4-room HDB plans[1]. Landlords: Coordinate with town councils; tenants: Photo issues before reporting. Differentiate fair wear and tear: Fair Wear and Tear vs Tenant Damage: Singapore Examples | Homejourney ">Fair Wear and Tear vs Tenant Damage: Singapore Examples | Homejourney.
Actionable Steps for Dispute Prevention
- Inspect at handover: Test taps, lights, aircon. Document with photos/videos[1].
- Negotiate clauses: Limit tenant repairs to under S$200. See Minor Repair Clause Negotiation Tips for Singapore Tenants | Homejourney ">Minor Repair Clause Negotiation Tips for Singapore Tenants | Homejourney.
- Report issues: Email landlord with photos within 48 hours[1].
- Escalate if needed: Community Mediation Centre, then Small Claims Tribunal (up to S$20,000)[1]. Document for SCT: How to Document Rental Repairs for SCT Claims in Singapore | Homejourney ">How to Document Rental Repairs for SCT Claims in Singapore | Homejourney.
Real example: In Punggol HDB, a tenant fixed a clogged sink (tenant duty) but escalated roof leak (landlord duty)—resolved via mediation in 2 weeks[1]. Red flag: Vague TA clauses—use Homejourney's verified listings at Homejourney property search.
Landlords: Schedule annual plans via Homejourney projects directory for HIP compliance[1]. Connect with agents at Homejourney agents for tenant-friendly management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are HDB rental maintenance rules for landlords?
Landlords fix structural issues, major plumbing/electrical. Schedule annual checks for compliance[1].
Do tenants pay for aircon repairs in HDB rentals?
Typically yes for servicing (filters, cleaning); major faults are landlord's. Budget S$200-300/year[1].
Who handles pest control in HDB rentals?
Tenants for minor infestations; landlords if structural (e.g., termites in walls)[1].
What if landlord ignores a repair request?
Document, notify in writing, escalate to mediation or SCT. Keep records for deposit refund[1].
Can tenants make alterations without permission?
No—written consent required to avoid rental repairs disputes[1].
Disclaimer: This is general guidance based on HDB rules and common practice. Consult HDB or a lawyer for specific cases. Homejourney prioritizes your safety—find trusted rentals today.
Master HDB Rental Maintenance Rules: Landlord vs Tenant Duties with Homejourney. Link back to our pillar: Complete Guide to HDB Renting in Singapore. Start your safe rental journey at Homejourney.
