Owning your own home is like a rite of passage for many Singaporeans. Even buying an HDB flat is already a big deal for some of us. But the real fun starts when you actually start turning your flat into your dream home.
However, having your home renovated takes meticulous planning if you want things to go smoothly.
From planning a budget to hiring an interior designer in Singapore, let’s walk through several things to consider when having your HDB flat renovated.
What Are Your Renovation Goals?
First, you should determine what you want to achieve with the project. Are you planning to make your home more spacious? Do you want to modernise its design? Or perhaps you’re only keen on upgrading a few rooms.
Answering such questions will help you stay focused and make the right design choices based on your goal.
Planning Your Budget
Although HDB flats are generally the most affordable housing option for Singaporeans, the cost of renovating one is still no joke. You’ll have to plan your finances carefully so you avoid making unnecessary expenses.
It’s best to do your research regarding the average cost for projects similar to yours. For instance, if you’re renovating a 3-room resale flat, then your funds should at least reach the minimum price for it.
But don’t forget to set aside money for emergency expenses that could happen during the renovation. You may have to fix a design that was implemented incorrectly or replace damaged materials or fixtures.
Choosing Your Interior Designers
Now if you want your home improvement project to run smoothly, you should make sure your ideas can actually work. This is where the interior design firms come in. Not only will they help create stylish plans that fit your concept, but they can also optimise the limited space in your HDB flat for better functionality and flow.
Interior designers in Singapore have different renovation packages with their own prices and scope of work. Make sure to ask for quotes so you can compare before hiring. Don’t forget to check their portfolio too — you’ll want a team who has plenty of experience with projects like yours.
Mind the Renovation Guidelines
The HDB has strict guidelines on renovation projects, so you’d do well to adhere to them if you don’t want to face penalties (and the ire of your neighbours). These rules include:
The renovation work shouldn’t compromise your flat’s structural integrity. An example of such a violation would be hacking down load-bearing walls to create an open-concept space.
You may only use materials approved by the HDB.
Renovations must be done by contractors listed in the Directory of Renovation Contractors. These professionals comply with the HDB’s standards.
Interior designers who specialise in HDB flats know these regulations and will help ensure that your project is compliant.
Procuring Your Permits
Are you satisfied with your interior designer’s plans? Then it’s time to start applying for permits and get the HDB’s approval. Some activities that need their permission include:
Partially or completely hacking down walls
Installing high-capacity appliances (if your flat doesn’t have higher electrical loading)
Replacing your current flooring with a new finish
You can ask your designer for help procuring the necessary permits. It would minimise your risk of non-compliance.
Find a Place to Stay for the Meantime
If you’ve seen the standard timeline for an HDB renovation, then you know it’ll take around three months to finish the project. You might want to start looking for alternative accommodations before work begins. Renovations can be quite disruptive, so it would be less stressful for you to stay elsewhere while the crew is working.
You don't have to spend extravagantly on a fancy Airbnb or hotel. You could ask a friend or family member if they're willing to keep you for a while.
Find the Right Pros for Your Renovation
Renovating an HDB flat costs a lot of money and can take a mental toll on you. But you can follow our pointers so you can prepare yourself and stay away from the stress.
And remember to carefully search for a contractor and interior designer in Singapore so you can be sure you’re hiring the right people for the job. They could make or break your project, so take your time planning when aiming for your dream home.