HDB warns owners risk having flats confiscated

Violators will be penalised ranging from $3,000 fine to compulsory acquisition of their flats.

Housing Development Board (HDB) reminds flat owners who sublet their rooms that they are required to register with HDB. Specifically, those with ongoing tenancies commencing before 1 Feb 2010, are reminded to register the subletting with HDB by 31 July 2010, if they have not already done so.

On 12 Jan 2010, HDB announced that with effect from 1 Feb 2010, flat owners who sublet rooms in their HDB flats will have to register with HDB within 7 days of doing so. They are also required to notify HDB when they renew or terminate their subletting contracts, and when there are changes to their subtenants' particulars. There is no need to seek prior approval for subletting of rooms, according to an HDB report.

The new rule applies to all new and existing cases of rooms sublets.

For new cases of subletting from 1 Feb 2010, owners are required to register with HDB within 7 days from the start date of the subletting; and for subletting tenancies that commenced before 1 Feb 2010, owners are given a 6-month grace period from 1 Feb 2010 to register their subletting of rooms with HDB. The 6-month grace period will expire on 31 July 2010.

As at 30 April 2010, 20,258 owners have registered their subletting of rooms with HDB. This includes those with tenancies commencing before and after 1 Feb 2010.

Those who sublet their rooms before 1 Feb 2010 are advised to register early to avoid a last-minute rush. Registration can be done online at www.hdb.gov.sg or at the HDB Branch Offices, where HDB staff will be on hand to guide residents on the process.

HDB may impose a penalty on those who flout the rule. The penalty may involve a fine of up to $3,000 or, for recalcitrant cases, compulsory acquisition of their flats.