HDB Renovation Permits 101

1 Comment / Reno Guide / September 30, 2022 September 30, 2022

HDB Renovation Permits 101

Get familiar with the permits required before renovating your HDB flat.

Collected your keys and excited to renovate your HDB flat? Make sure you learn about the permits required and renovation guidelines before starting on your renovation works!

Permits? What Permits?

As the home owner, you are responsible for ensuring that all permits required for your flat’s renovations are obtained from HDB before the works begin.

HDB requires these permits to ensure that the renovations you plan on doing do not affect the structure of your flat. This helps to keep you and your neighbours safe!

Do note that the renovation contractor you are engaging must be listed in the Directory of Renovation Contractors, which means they are aware of HDB’s requirements when they carry out renovations, and to protect the structural integrity of the building.

Floor Finishes

You will need a permit if you are thinking of removing existing floor finishes and replacing them with floor finishes of your choice. You also need a permit to raise the level of the floors in your kitchen, balcony, bathroom or toilet – doing these works incorrectly can add unnecessary stress on the floor slab of the flat and weaken the overall structure of the flat.

Hardy and cost-efficient, vinyl is a popular flooring option that can be quickly laid above existing tiles, long as it complies with HDB’s guidelines on replacing floor finishes.

Walls

Before you hack down any walls in your flat, you need to obtain a permit from HDB to ensure that the demolition works do not compromise the structural integrity of the flat.

Similarly, any construction of arches or rounded corners to existing openings also requires HDB’s approval before it can be carried out.

*HDB’s approval is required for construction of arches or rounded corners*
*Home Tours:* *An Urban Sanctuary with a Vintage Twist*, *A Bold, Eclectic Home*

Replacing internal wall finishes? You need a permit too to prevent any tampering of existing wall structures. Just putting wallpaper, or plastering your walls? No permit needed!

Doors

You need a permit to replace your main entrance door, if it is situated along a fire escape route i.e. facing a staircase or lift lobby. The replacement door and the frame of the door must be half hour fire-rated, and complete with a door closer.

Changing the location of doors within the flat also requires a permit from HDB, to ensure that the hacking works involved do not affect the structural integrity of the flat.

Bathrooms/ Toilets

You will have to wait 3 years before removing any wall or floor finishes in the toilets of your BTO flat. Otherwise, the waterproofing works in these wet areas might become damaged.

*Instead of hacking away the original tiles, overlay them with the tiles of your choice. For more bathroom renovation tips, read* *The Basics of Bathroom Renovation*!

After 3 years, if you decide to change the flooring or wall finishes of your bathrooms and toilets, or extend your bathroom/ toilet, you will need to get a permit from HDB.

Air-Conditioner Installation Works

If you buy a BTO flat, and the compressor of the air-conditioner is going to be installed at the air-conditioner ledge, you do not have to apply for a permit from HDB before the installation.

However, if you bought a resale flat that is still using a 30 Amps main switch, you must get a permit from HDB before installing air-conditioner units using new 15 Amps power point or new 20 Amps isolator.

You need to submit an air-conditioner installation report if you plan on installing your air-conditioner on building exterior, or if any part of the air-conditioner projects outwards from the building.

Window Works

Permits are needed if you want to install or change your flat’s windows or the grilles at your service yard or balcony. The design of the windows and grilles must also comply with the colour and design scheme approved by HDB, so that your flat does not look too different from your neighbours’ when viewed from the outside.

*Replacement of full height and ¾ height windows such as the above is strictly not allowed*

To prevent accidents from happening, only engage BCA-approved window contractor registered with HDB for the installation and replacement of your flat’s windows and ensure that all works comply with HDB’s safety requirements.

Applying for an HDB Renovation Permit

You can authorise your renovation contractor to submit an electronic renovation application on your behalf. Removing or repositioning fittings, hacking down or constructing walls? Scans of the layout plans, elevations, sections or details of the proposed works must be submitted together with your application.

Once HDB receives the application, an SMS notification will be sent to you. You can view your renovation permit on My HDBPage once it has been granted.

Do HDB Renovation Permits Expire?

After you obtained the approval from HDB for your renovations, ensure that they are carried out as soon as possible, as these permits come with expiry dates. For new BTO flats, the approved renovations must be completed within 3 months. Resale flats have a shorter deadline – renovation works must be completed within a month, to minimise inconvenience to your existing neighbours.

The renovation contractor must comply with the stipulated timings for carrying out renovations. Remind your contractor to inform your neighbours and put up the Notice of Renovation indicating the start and end date of your renovations outside your flat early, so that your neighbours can make their own plans to avoid the noise and dust during this time, if necessary.

Bonus: Coping with Noisy Renovation Works

Do you have neighbours who are renovating their flat instead? We know it can get challenging at home with noisy renovation works going on around you, such as if you work from home.

You can maintain friendly relations with your neighbours by reaching out to them. Let them know if there are specific days or timeslots that might be of particular concern (e.g. important meetings or interview), so both parties can address it together.

If necessary, you may approach your grassroots leader or other neighbours to act as a mediator when communicating with your new neighbour.

This nifty infographic explains common light renovations that do not require HDB’s approval:

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

A Guide to Renovating Your HDB Flat

1 Comment / Reno Guide / September 30, 2022 October 1, 2022

A Guide to Renovating Your HDB Flat

Getting ready to renovate your flat? Get familiar with the steps involved to enjoy a smooth renovation process.

All ready to renovate your flat? Before you get started, familiarise yourself with these steps to enjoy a smooth and hassle-free process. Here are the top 8 things that you need to know!

1. Engage a Contractor listed in the Directory of Renovation Contractors

When engaging a renovation contractor, it is important to engage only those listed in the Directory of Renovation Contractors. This also applies to renovations which do not require HDB’s prior approval.

The Directory of Renovation Contractors lists contractors who are familiar with HDB’s renovation rules and requirements which are in place to protect the structural integrity of the building. You can view the Directory of Renovation Contractors on HDB InfoWEB, or via the Mobile@HDB app.

That said, HDB does not endorse or guarantee the quality of the renovations. The contractors will be fully responsible for the contractual responsibilities towards you, their client, including workmanship.

2. Submit a Renovation Application

You and your renovation contractor must obtain HDB’s prior approval before starting any demolishing and/ or hacking of walls, whether partially or fully. This mandatory requirement protects residents’ safety, as unauthorised demolishing and/ or hacking of walls may affect the structural integrity of the building.

For renovations works that require HDB’s prior approval, ensure that your renovation contractor submits an online renovation application to HDB together with the acknowledgement form signed by you, the flat owner, before commencing work.

You will receive a Short Message Service (SMS) notification upon the submission of the renovation application by your renovation contractor. To view the status of your renovation permit application, log in to My HDBPage (My Flat > Purchased Flat > Renovation) on HDB InfoWEB.

Learn more about HDB renovation permits here. You can also read up on guidelines and important information for works that can be done in your flat on the HDB InfoWEB.

3. Contact Other Agencies on Related Works

During the renovation process, you will most likely require other services such as air-conditioner installation.

If you plan to mount your air-conditioner on the exterior of your flat, or if any part of the air-conditioner will project from your flat, you must engage a BCA-trained air-conditioner installer. Once the air conditioning unit has been installed, you will also need to email the installation report to the HDB Branch managing your flat.

Check out the list of other works below to find out if a licensed worker/ contractor is required:

4. Keep Renovations to Permitted Hours

Noise from renovation works can be disruptive to your neighbours, especially those who have young children, or are working from home. We can maintain harmonious relations with our neighbours by adhering to the following:

Inform your neighbours staying within a radius of 2 units at least 3 days in advance before renovations begin. Do remind your contractor to put up the Notice of Renovation outside your flat early and throughout the renovation period.

Only carry out renovation work between the stipulated timings below.

Should you be carrying out DIY (Do-It-Yourself) works, do limit it between 7:00am and 10:30pm, and keep noise to a minimum with the tips below.

When possible, close the main door of your flat while works are ongoing, to help reduce noise disturbance to your neighbours and do remember to inform them in advance of any works that may generate noise.

5. Manage Payment and Any Renovations Dispute

The renovation contract between flat owners and their contractors is a private one, and not regulated by any government agency. If there are disputes over the renovation such as pricing, costs, work schedule, type or quality of renovations, these should be resolved between both parties.

If you are facing challenges with settling the matter amicably, both parties may approach the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE), Singapore Mediation Centre or the Small Claims Tribunals for assistance or seek legal redress.

6. Use the Lifts Properly

Renovating and moving into your new home is an exciting time for all home owners! However, it can also be hectic, dusty, and noisy. Movers and contractors carrying bulky items will be a common sight, and lifts may take a slightly longer time to arrive.

Do your part by telling your contractors or vendors not to jam the lift doors when moving materials and furniture as this can damage the lifts, causing inconvenience and delay to other lift users.

7. Keep your Neighbourhood Clean

Unwanted items such as packing materials and renovation debris discarded around your estate can potentially create safety and health hazards, and will mar the image of your estate.

Do remind your delivery persons, movers and contractors to dispose of renovation debris and unwanted items properly by carting them to disposal sites. They should not wash or flush debris into the sewage system or dispose of bulky items into the refuse chute, as this could cause damage and inconvenience you and your neighbours.

You may report instances of lift misuse and dumping of debris in the common areas via the OneService website or app.

8. Care for Your Home Regularly

Finally, it’s important to carry out regular checks on the fittings and fixtures in your home. This can help you spot areas that require attention before they become serious and save you money on major repairs.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

My Nice Home Gallery Showflats

Leave a Comment / Buy Your Flat / September 22, 2022 October 5, 2022

It’s been a while, and we are stoked to have you back at the revamped My Nice Home Gallery!

The gallery has undergone a makeover, so expect all-new interior themes for the 2-room Flexi, 3-room, 4-room and 5-room flat types, as well as a new MyNiceHome concept space. In addition to refreshed interior themes, the showflats also showcase the latest fittings and finishes that we provide in our new flats.

Read on to find out more about the showflats for each flat type:

Showflats

2-Room Flexi (36 sqm): Blush
2-Room Flexi (46 sqm): Mid-Century Modern
3-Room: Retro Fun
4-Room: Nordic Silhouette
5-Room: Tropical Luxe

2-Room Flexi (36 sqm): Blush

If you’re a fan of the soft ‘blush’ interior look, this 2-room Flexi showflat at the My Nice Home Gallery is perfect for you.

The living room features pink, white and grey shades – the primary colours of the showflat’s interior theme

The main colour palette comprises a soft pink hue, as well as shades of white and greys. White is used to create an airy and light feel while the darker grey tones help to create depth. Grey and pink tones are used strategically in the showflat – such as on the feature walls in the living room and bedroom. A variety of patterns and textures also tastefully jazz up the interior.

The kitchen comprise mainly the colour white that brightens up the space

The showflat shows how to maximise space using modular and multi-functional furniture. The extendable dining table is a perfect example – when not in use, it can be shortened to free up floor space, and doubles up as a work desk. Additionally, the sofa and bed frame both have storage compartments to keep items that you rarely use.

Create a work nook in the living/ dining area

As the living room is adjacent to the bedroom, consider incorporating a television which can be rotated 180°. That way, you can choose to watch your shows from either room!

Incorporate a rotating TV to maximize space

2-Room Flexi (46 sqm): Mid-Century Modern

The mid-century modern aesthetic is characterised by simplicity and functionality. What sets this style apart is its focus on sleek lines with geometric forms, and the use of contrasting materials.

View from the living area

The earthy colours and wooden furniture in this showflat make the entire space cosy and intimate. The most striking element is the geometric-patterned feature wall in the living room that complements the mid-century modern look.

The geometric feature wall adds a different dimension to the space

Pull-out drawers in the vanity area in the master bedroom can maximise storage space

This 2-room Flexi showflat features a layout that includes a space for caregivers, and an open kitchen which allows for greater mobility. It is an ideal home for active seniors to live in comfortably and safely.

Flexible space for a caregiver, which can double up as a workspace

The kitchen features pull-out drawers that double up as additional countertop space

3-Room: Retro Fun

Step into this showflat and be greeted by a refreshing mix of fun colours and prints that effortlessly serve up retro vibes and add visual interest. The 3-room showflat provides inspiration for fun-loving young families looking to liven up their space.

The living area is decked out in pops of colour that add vibrancy to the space

Colours such as turquoise, mustard and pink were iconic a few decades ago, when they found their way into everything from fashion to furniture. In this living room, a pink lounge chair is a striking statement piece.

Statement furniture such as the lounge chair can be used for visual interest

Beyond the colours and prints, home owners who are space-conscious will also find some inspiration. Storage furniture, such as a bed with compartments, is used to reduce visual clutter.

A notable feature of the showflat lies in the kitchen, which has been combined with the utility area to form an enlarged area that will please any cooking enthusiast. The kitchen adopts an open concept that flows seamlessly into the living room, giving a sense of spaciousness to the living area.

The open kitchen is seamlessly connected with the dining area. Versatile furnishings such as the extendable dining table and stackable dining chairs help to maximise space and can be neatly stowed away when not in use, to reduce visual clutter

The child’s bedroom features more storage solutions such as underbed boxes and wall niches. These wall niches also visually break up vertical spaces while adding a touch of modernity and vibrancy to the rooms.

Underbed boxes and wall niches are used to provide additional storage space in the child’s bedroom

4 Room: Nordic Silhouette

With their timeless yet contemporary aesthetic, it’s little wonder why Scandinavian homes are a popular source of inspiration. Love the idea of a Nordic-inspired nest for yourself? The 4-room showflat at the My Nice Home Gallery offers wallet-friendly design ideas for both young couples and families.

Decked out in the Nordic theme, the 4-room showflat features harmonious shades of mustard, white and grey.

The 4-room showflat adopts an open floor plan that sees a seamless transition from the living to dining area

The use of white and light-coloured carpentry and furnishings complement the neutral palette. In the combined living and dining space, yellow chairs and cushions add a pop of colour. Striped textiles emphasise the clean lines typical of Scandinavian interiors.

With a spacious common area as the heart of the home, a family can gather comfortably on the plush sofa or around the dining table to spend quality time together.

The yellow dining chairs help to add a pop of colour to the area

A study nook in the living area is also a great spot for children to indulge in their creative hobbies, or for adults who need to get some work done at home.

A workspace carved out from a corner

While Scandinavian design might be minimalist in nature, the master bedroom shows how to achieve a cosy personal sanctuary. Details matter – add curves through an oval mirror or rounded lampshade for a gentle touch, and put soft furnishings like luxe bedclothes and rugs on your shopping list!

Soft furnishings rugs and bed throws can be used to add a cosy touch to the bedroom

If you have always wanted a smart home, you will enjoy the master bedroom in the 4-room showflat. Be sure to check out how you can control smart appliances such as lights and blinds through a tablet, to create your ideal environment.

When designing your children’s bedrooms, it’s possible to achieve both style and function. For instance, a bunk bed instantly carves out space for a study right beneath, providing ample space for favourite books and toys.

Bunk bed with a study nook

A bed with storage beneath is practical and will serve your child well throughout their growing years. Instead of built-ins, movable furniture can be replaced as and when needed to meet the child’s changing needs.

Maximize storage space with underbed pull-out drawers or boxes

Keep things simple but not plain, with unique design elements such as floral light fixtures and surface decals.

5-Room: Tropical Luxe

Decked out in a tropical theme, the 5-room showflat features a colour palette of turquoise and white, with splashes of greenery, as well as black and wood accents. At the same time, a hint of gold fittings as well as geometric lines and textures add to its luxurious vibes.

The living room is decorated with splashes of greenery, wood accents and gold fittings to bring out the interior theme

In creating a larger common area, the dining area is designed to be within the living room. Instead of conventional dining chairs, a long, built-in bench is used for seats. Not only does it add to the aesthetic, a bench offers more seating space while doubling up as storage.

The dining room is designed as an extension of the living area

The built-in bench doubles up as a storage area

This showflat also features a small workspace near the kitchen. For more flexibility, the worktable is designed to be easily stowed away when not in use and can be converted into an exercise space or children’s play area.

The versatile worktable can be easily stowed away

To demarcate the spaces, a half-wall partition topped with a black-framed glass panel is used.

The half-wall and half-glass kitchen partition has become increasingly popular amongst home owners

For families who indulge in heavy cooking, this type of kitchen partition also come in handy as it helps with keeping the fumes within the kitchen while allowing a full view of the living area—useful for supervising the little ones!

Inspired by hotel suites, the master bedroom is designed to be luxurious yet cosy. Cove lights are used to create a welcoming atmosphere, while lines and textures on the wardrobe and feature wall create a subtle statement.

The design of the master bedroom is inspired by that of a hotel

More space-saving solutions can be found in the bedrooms. For instance, the common bedroom features a flip-up dresser that doubles up as a writing desk, while the kids room has a pull-out study table that can be easily stowed away to create a bigger play area.

The dressing table features a flip-up mirror that can be easily kept away to double up as a writing desk

Similarly, the pull-out study table in the children’s room enables the area to be used more flexibly

The showflat also showcases the smart home features that can be incorporated into your new home to make it more comfortable and convenient. These include temperature and humidity sensors, as well as smart lighting, air conditioners and voice activated smart controls.

Features such as light and air conditioning can be remotely controlled via a smart system

One example of smart lighting is the motion-sensor activated lights in the bathroom

In the showflat, you can also find assistive items such as pull-down wardrobe racks, motion sensor bins and telephones with larger displays. A smart elderly monitoring and alert system comprising a panic alert button, digital security camera, smart smoke and sensors will also be on display.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Home Design Apps to Help Achieve Your Dream Home

Leave a Comment / Design Ideas / September 22, 2022 October 5, 2022

Home Design Apps to Help Achieve Your Dream Home

Seek design inpiration, swatch paint colours and play around with flat layous with these home design apps.

While many of us might already have an idea of our dream home, we could still use some help when it comes to visualising the final look.
Today, whether it’s to seek design inspiration, play around with layouts, or even swatch paint colours, there are many home design apps and tools to help excited homeowners ease the design process.
And we’ve put together a list of them for you.

Source for Inspiration

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With an array of interior design and home décor inspirations, Pinterest has become one of the go-to home design apps, especially when putting together a mood board. You can even save the images that catch your eye through Pinterest’s Pins function before organising them in different Boards (another unique Pinterest function that are essentially albums).

Design Your Home Virtually

Now that you have a rough idea of the desired aesthetic for your home, it’s time for the fun part – designing! Skip the pen and paper, and use online tools such as Home Design 3D or Home by Me where you can virtually build your home. These home design apps let you draw your home based on your floor plan, and then pick out tiles and furnishings from a wide selection of furniture and accessories. Once you’re done, you can even walk through your home in 3D, as if you are physically there! It’s like playing The Sims, but only more fun.

Track Your Progress

To keep track of your renovation tasks and progress, leverage online notetaking tools such as Evernote or Google Docs. They may not be fall exactly in the home design app category, but these easy-to-use tools let you upload images (such as floor plans) and notes, which will come in handy when communicating with your designer or contractor. You could even use Google Sheets to track your renovation budget and progress. The plus point of using these platforms is that they sync between mobile, web, and desktop versions, so the content is readily available at your fingertips.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Taking Care of Your Windows

Leave a Comment / Maintain Your Flat / September 22, 2022 October 7, 2022

Taking Care of Your Windows

Keep your windows in tip-top condition with these 3 easy steps!

Windows are essential to a comfortable home, but sometimes we only notice them when they are not functioning properly! Your windows need regular maintenance to be kept in good and safe condition, and here are the reasons why:

Windows are exposed to the rain and sun which can lead to wear and tear
A worn-out window can fall and cause serious injury to passersby below

Tips for Regular Window Maintenance – The 3 ‘C’s

A little effort can ensure that your windows remain safe. Just remember the 3 ‘C’s – check, clean and change – and window maintenance will be a breeze!

Casement Windows

Sliding Windows

Changing Windows and Window Grilles

Your flat already comes with shiny new windows, but if you ever need to replace them, do ensure that your new windows are of the same size, colour, and type as the existing ones. You also must engage a BCA-approved window contractor listed with HDB to replace or repair your windows.

Window grilles may be necessary for safety and security – especially if you have young children around. You may install or replace any window grilles within your home, as long as they do not extend out of your flat and do not modify the building exterior in any way. Check out this page for more information on window safety!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Experience the HDB Story at LIVINGSPACE

Leave a Comment / Buy Your Flat / September 22, 2022 October 5, 2022

Experience the HDB Story at LIVINGSPACE

Learn more about the transformation of Singapore’s public housing through LIVINGSPACE’s 8 themed interactive spaces

Coming to HDB Hub for an appointment? Make sure you pop by LIVINGSPACE, HDB’s gallery for all visitors!

Comprising 8 themed spaces with interactive exhibits, this gallery at HDB Hub takes you on a journey to experience the transformation of Singapore’s public housing over the years. Here’s a sneak peek before your visit!

1. HomeScape

Begin your journey at Level 1 with panoramic views of the HDB heartland at the HomeScape space. Through a series of videos, immerse yourself in the picturesque vistas of HDB towns and experience Singapore’s public housing landscape from a different perspective.

2. Journey Space

As you enter the gallery at Basement 1 of HDB Hub, take a walk through Journey Space, where an interactive video wall highlighting key moments from Singapore’s public housing story awaits. At the same time, experience the evolution of the heartland over the past 6 decades through a photo montage exhibition.

The essence of HDB living is captured through the eyes of Singapore’s younger generation in this beautiful mural titled ‘Impressions of Home’ by students from Pathlight School.

3. Plan Space

Make your way to Plan Space and learn more about HDB’s plans to build well-designed and sustainable towns through a variety of tactile exhibits such as 3D models and informative videos.

4. Eco Space

At Eco Space, discover the development of cutting-edge solutions that help create a smart and more liveable environment for residents. Take a closer look at HDB’s urban innovations and sustainability solutions that have been rolled out across HDB towns, such as the floating wetland systems deployed at My Waterway @ Punggol.

6. Create Space

A multi-touch showcase at Create Space helps visitors understand more about Singapore’s successful public housing programme, from its key policies to diverse housing options. Also, discover how HDB has continuously rejuvenated its towns, such as Toa Payoh, to meet residents’ needs!

7. Share Space

Vibrant communities are integral to every HDB town. At Share Space, find out how HDB has, through supporting a variety of initiatives, facilitated and enabled community initiatives that foster stronger community bonds.

8. Future Space

Ever thought about what the homes of tomorrow would be like? Upcoming plans in new housing areas at Punggol Point, Tengah and Tampines North are on display at Future Space. You can also share your hopes and aspirations for HDB living in the future here.

Have you thought about what the homes of tomorrow would be like? Upcoming plans in new housing areas at Punggol Point, Tengah and Tampines North are on display at the Future Space. You can also share your hopes and aspirations for HDB living in the future here.

Curious about HDB’s newest town, Tengah? Catch a glimpse of how Tengah was planned through the wide-screen displays, projection mapping and interactives at the Theatre.

Before concluding your tour of LIVINGSPACE, check out the one-of-a-kind ‘Flavours of the Heartland’ vending machine and its curated collection of merchandise comprising of LEGO kits, keychains and magnets that are inspired by iconic HDB buildings and playgrounds.

Lastly, commemorate your visit with a photo against the iconic Dragon Playground, re-created at LIVINGSPACE.

You can even relive your childhood by going down the slide!

LIVINGSPACE is open from Mondays to Saturdays, 8:30am to 5:00pm. Admission is free.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Design Ideas – Kitchen Sink Ideas for Maximising Utility

Leave a Comment / Design Ideas / September 22, 2022 October 7, 2022

Kitchen Sink Ideas for Maximising Utility

From design to size to material, here are some considerations to keep in mind when shopping for your kitchen sink.

Choosing a kitchen sink goes beyond your interior style. You’ll also need to consider your lifestyle, especially if you’ll be cooking and cleaning up regularly. It’s one of the most important decisions to make when planning your kitchen layout, as it can’t be changed as easily. To help you find a kitchen sink idea that works best for you, here are some considerations to keep in mind.

1. Design – Drop-in vs. Undermount Sinks

Drop-in sinks, as the name suggests, are placed with a visible rim that rests on the countertop. This kitchen sink idea makes such sinks easier to install and replace. They are generally more affordable as well. But you’d need to clean the rim regularly, to prevent dirt and grime from building up.

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Drop in sinks

Undermount sinks are fitted beneath the countertop and are held in place with cement. This kitchen sink idea gives you slightly more countertop space – a huge plus for compact kitchens. It’s also more convenient to sweep food and water over the countertop and into the sink. However, it’s important to perform regular checks for leaks, to prevent mould and avoid expensive carpentry repair costs.

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Undermount sinks

2. Material – Steel vs. Granite vs. Porcelain

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Stainless steel is one of the most popular material for kitchen sinks, as it requires low maintenance and is heat-resistant. It can also blend well with most designs and countertop material, making it a classic in the modern-day kitchen. The only con is that water spots and scratches may appear over time, though these can be easily buffed out with the right equipment.

Granite composite and porcelain are also popular material choices. Granite composite is highly resistant to water spots, scratches and dents, while porcelain sinks are perfect for vintage and farmhouse interiors. However, beware of scuff marks and chipping for the latter!

3. Size and Configuration

A double-bowl kitchen sink, with a divider in the middle, is a practical design for separate tasks. You could soap and rinse dirty dishes separately, or prep ingredients in one sink and clean your hands in the other.

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On the other hand, a single-bowl sink makes it easier to soak and wash larger pots and woks, or prep larger quantities of ingredients. Also, consider the size of your sink based on the availability of countertop space, as well as the configuration of your cabinets.

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4. Fittings

Once you’ve narrowed down your kitchen sink ideas, choose a kitchen tap design that’ll complement the sink. Make sure the height and direction of the lever work best with your kitchen sink design and kitchen layout. For larger sinks, consider an extendable spray that’ll help you reach all corners, to make washing up much more efficient.

Looking to renovate your kitchen? From kitchen islands to backsplashes, we’ve got your interior inspiration covered.

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

A Guide to Defects Inspection for Your New HDB Flat

Leave a Comment / Defect Check / September 22, 2022 September 30, 2022

Defects inspection for new HDB BTO flats should be conducted shortly upon key collection, with defects reported within 30 days.

Collecting the keys to your new BTO flat and planning that first visit soon?
Besides the celebratory TikTok video or Instagram story to share your joy, it’s important to conduct a defects inspection for your HDB BTO flat.

Completing this step quickly can help expedite your home renovation, and get you moving into your new home sooner.

What is defects inspection?

While HDB conducts quality checks during the construction process, minor defects on surfaces, fixtures and/ or fittings may still exist. Fret not, new HDB BTO flats are covered under a warranty within the 1-year Defects Liability Period (DLP), which starts from the date of your key collection.

Upon key collection, you have 30 days to report your defects, before you start your renovation. Otherwise, it would be difficult to ascertain if it was the building contractor or the renovation contractor who may have caused the defect(s), and who should be the party to carry out the repairs.

While the completion of repair works usually take less than 2 weeks, you should discuss the works with the Building Service Centre (BSC) staff in order to keep to your intended renovation schedule.

How do I check for defects?

It’s easy to check for defects on your own, without the help of specialists. In the following steps, we share tips on the key things to look out for.

During your inspection, you may come across imperfections such as minor colour variations of your floor tiles or timber floor, and differences in the size of tile grouts. These are perfectly normal, and occur due to the inherent nature of the materials and manual nature of construction work.

Step 1: Preparing for defects inspection

Refer to the checklist below for what you need:

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Save and share this with someone who needs it!

Step 2: Checking the flat

Defects inspection essentially involves the 4 major areas listed below. Go through your flat systematically, while labelling defects with painter’s tape or post it-notes, and noting them down in your defect(s) list.
Here is a handy guide to refer to when conducting your defects inspection!

A-Guide-to-Defects-Inspection-for-Your-New-HDB-Flat-2.png

Download this handy guide for reference!

Step 3: Book a joint inspection with BSC staff

You can do it online or contact the Building Services Centre (BSC) located within your BTO project.
Our friendly BSC staff will go through the items you have reported for your unit, before arranging for the rectification works and a final closing inspection with you.

Once you complete the defects inspection of your new HDB BTO flat, you can start on your home renovation!

Pest Prevention Tips to Safeguard Your Home

Leave a Comment / Reno Guide / September 22, 2022 October 7, 2022

Pest Prevention Tips to Safeguard Your Home

Household pests such as the Aedes mosquito can cause Dengue and Zika symptoms – keep them at bay with these pest prevention tips

A clean, comfortable home is essential for daily living. But are pests lurking in dark spots you can’t see? In addition to unsanitary living conditions, household pests like the Aedes mosquito can cause serious Dengue and Zika symptoms like prolonged high fevers, joint pains, and headaches. Follow these pest prevention tips to keep unwanted visitors at bay!

1. Remove Food Sources

Pests, such as ants and roaches, are usually attracted to food and water sources, so they’ll likely seek out unwashed dishes, food waste and even forgotten food bits in pantry cabinets. A useful pest prevention tip is to clean up food and water spills quickly, clear your trash regularly and do a quick vacuum or wipe down after you eat so you don’t leave crumbs for these pests!

2. Keep Spaces Clean, Tidy and Dry

Dark, damp areas are favourite lounging spots for pests. Here are some of the often-forgotten places in your home and how you can keep them pest-free:

Underneath cabinets and sinks: Remove all items and scrub the entire area, focusing on hard-to-reach corners. Declutter your items so there are fewer hiding spots for pesky pests.
Behind fridges: Mop up spills and fix any leaky plumbing to remove water sources
Vases, pails, toothbrush holders and other containers with water: Remove stagnant water, wipe dry and keep them overturned

While other pests may need a larger area to breed, the Aedes mosquito only needs stagnant water the size of a 20-cent coin! Here’s a simple checklist to prevent mosquito breeding and keep your family protected:

Photo: National Environment Agency Singapore

3. Spray For Extra Protection

Once you’ve established a regular cleaning routine, pests are less likely to find your home desirable. Use these simple sprays for added pest prevention:

Ants, roaches: Add lemon slices and a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil into water and spray the mixture at possible hiding spots
Lizards: Mix pepper and chilli powder into water and spray into corners
Mosquitoes: Spray insecticide at dark corners around the house. Repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), picaridin or IR3535 as the active ingredient are the most effective in repelling mosquitoes.

4. Screen and Seal Entrances

Even in the cleanest of homes, it’s possible to find the occasional unwanted guest. Consider installing magnetic window screens that can obstruct the path of lizards and bugs, while keeping your homes ventilated. These strips can also be easily removable and cleaned.

Cracks and crevices on walls, ceilings and along ledges can help with pest prevention, so seal up all possible areas of entry using silicone sealants to keep your homes truly pest-proof!

For more tips on home maintenance, check out the latest reads or refer to our guide getting the basics of maintaining your flat right!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

Common Fire Hazards: Fire Prevention & Safety Tips

Leave a Comment / Maintain Your Flat / September 22, 2022 October 7, 2022

Common Fire Hazards: Fire Prevention & Safety Tips

Defence is the best offence when it comes to fire prevention – find out what the common fire hazards and what you can do to prevent them

Creating that perfect home may take years of hard work and investment. But if we’re not vigilant about fire prevention and safety, everything that we’ve painstakingly built can go up in flames (literally) in a matter of seconds.

As such, home fire alarm devices and fire extinguishers are extremely valuable tools for fire prevention.

Did you know? From June 2018, smoke or heat detectors are mandatory in all new HDB flats

As always, fire prevention is the best defence. Read on for a list of common fire hazards at home, and what you can do to prevent them:

Personal Mobility Device (PMD)

Avoid charging the battery of your PMD overnight – better yet, don’t charge it without supervision. Also, avoid placing the charging battery near combustible materials such as paper and fabric (think books and curtains).

Before purchasing a PMD, it’s important to ensure that the device is of an LTA-approved model and must be registered with the LTA. This condition is also applicable to second-hand PMDs. Penalties include a $5,000 fine and/or a jail term of up to three months, and are applicable to owners with PMDs that were LTA-approved but later modified.

Kitchen Stoves

It takes just a few minutes for a pot or pan to overheat and catch fire, so avoid leaving cooking unattended. Remember to keep flammable liquids (such as cooking oil) or combustible materials away from the stove as part of fire prevention.

Power Sockets

When power sockets are overloaded, electrical fires can occur. Use them safely and limit your use to the number of sockets that have been provided. Switch off and unplug all electrical appliances when not in use.

Incense Sticks and Candles

Avoid placing lighted incense sticks and candles near curtains or combustible materials, which may catch fire when they are near the open flame.

Cigarette Butts

When there’s smoke, there’s fire. Refrain from throwing lighted cigarette butts into the rubbish chute or bin.

Rest assured knowing that there are several measures in place to protect your flat, including the unfortunate event of a fire – read our guide to home insurance to find out more!

Source: mynicehome.gov.sg

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Pest Prevention Tips to Safeguard Your Home

Common Fire Hazards: Fire Prevention & Safety Tips