HDB changes occupancy cap to 6 persons for 4-room flats

This will be effective starting May.

Housing and Development Board (HDB) announced that it has revised its occupancy cap to six persons for 4-room and bigger HDB flats for rent, from the current maximum of nine persons. This will also apply to all living quarters of commercial properties.

“The changes seek to minimise disamenities caused by overcrowding, and to maintain a conducive living environment in our public housing estates,” HDB said.

Meanwhile, occupancy cap for 3-room and smaller flats remains the same at 6 persons and 4 persons, respectively.

Flat owners and commercial property tenants are also required to register within seven days from the start of the tenancy before they can rent out their bedroom/s, whilst commercial property owners are not required. This is to ensure that the eligibility conditions are met before the tenancy, HDB said.

Applications can be submitted online via HDB’s e-services, with an administrative fee of $10 per bedroom and $20 for the whole flat rented, and $100 for whole or partial living quarters in commercial properties. The results will be released immediately.

“Flat owners, as well as commercial owners and tenants, are advised to adhere to the occupancy cap and to seek approval before finalising their tenancy arrangements. Enforcement action will be taken against any infringement,” HDB said.

Said revisions will be effective for all new and renewal applications starting May 1, 2018.