Defects in HDB Flats

1. I would like to assure Members that the Housing and Development Board (HDB) has not gone soft on the building quality of HDB’s flats. HDB subjects all its flats to assessment under the Building and Construction Authority’s (BCA) Construction Quality Assessment System or CONQUAS.

2. Nevertheless, given the number of building projects that HDB oversees, there may be isolated cases of contractors not meeting HDB’s standards. HDB takes a strong view of such cases and constantly reviews the workmanship of its contractors to keep such cases to a minimum.

3. To help affected lessees, for defects detected and reported within the defects liability period, HDB will recall the contractors to carry out repairs. For those reported after the defects liability period, HDB will arrange for repairs without charge if the cause is found to be poor design or workmanship.

4. For all new flats built from 2005 onwards, HDB offers an extended warranty scheme that covers three types of defects - ceiling leakage, water seepage and spalling concrete. This reflects HDB’s commitment towards providing high-quality workmanship to flat buyers.

5. I understand that most of the affected units - about 120 - in Senja Road have been rectified, with 38 currently undergoing repair works.

Security in HDB Neighbourhoods

6. Member has requested for security cameras in HDB neighbourhoods. HDB takes the security of its residents seriously and factors this consideration into its design plans. Where possible, HDB will minimise blind corners and facilitate good visibility within public areas.

7. To further enhance security, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) is working with Town Councils to install CCTVs at selected void decks and multi-storey car parks in HDB estates. The feedback so far has been that the CCTVs have been an effective deterrent against crimes like housebreaking, robberies and harassment from moneylenders. Town Councils will continue to work with the SPF to see if CCTVs could be made available to more HDB blocks and car parks, subject to the availability of funds.

8. In addition, I should highlight that we do have community programmes like neighbourhood watch groups to minimise crime, and they have been effective in preventing vandalism in car parks and other public areas.

>>back to top