application exerciseBukit Batok, Hougang, Tampines, and Toa Payoh are among the 29,000 HDB flats selected for the Home Improvement Programme (HIP), as announced in a press release by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) on February 16. The government has allocated over $407 million for the upgrading works, which will help address common maintenance issues in older flats.
Since its introduction in 2007, the HIP has been aimed at aiding flat owners in resolving common wear and tear related maintenance issues in older flats. As per the press release, 494,000 flats, accounting for nine out of ten eligible flats, have been selected for the programme since its inception. Furthermore, close to 381,000 flats have already undergone upgrades, according to Minister for National Development Desmond Lee.
Flats located in Bedok, Bukit Batok, Bukit Merah, Bukit Panjang, Chua Chu Kang, Hougang, Jurong West, Pasir Ris, Queenstown, Sengkang, Tampines, Toa Payoh and Woodlands have been selected for the latest round of the HIP.
The programme covers necessary repairs such as fixing spalling concrete and addressing ceiling leakages due to wear and tear, to ensure the basic safety needs of residents. These essential improvements are fully funded by the government for Singapore citizen households.
Flat owners have the option of choosing additional improvements such as renovations to existing bathrooms and toilets, installing a new entrance door and grille gate, and replacing the refuse chute hopper. The government subsidises these optional improvements, with Singapore citizen households paying a minimal fee of 5% of the cost, based on the type of flat.
In addition to the HIP, the Enhancement for Active Seniors (Ease) programme has been in place since 2012. Under this, flat owners can choose to install senior-friendly fittings such as grab bars, ramps, and slip-resistant treatment for toilet and bathroom tiles. The government covers up to 95% of the costs for Singapore citizen households under this programme.
As of March 31, 2014, approximately $4 billion has been allocated to the HIP and around $150 million to the Ease programme, as reported by HDB. Interested individuals can check out the latest listings for HDB properties on the Ask Buddy platform, which also provides information on past HDB sale and rental transactions, loan options, and price trends for HDB, condominiums, and landed properties.
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