More than 53,000 HDB flats selected for Home Improvement Programme; over S$742 million set aside for works
Upgrading includes the repair of spalling concrete, replacement of waste and soil discharge stacks, replacement of pipe sockets with new clothes drying racks and upgrading of electrical load
THE Ministry of National Development and the Housing and Development Board (HDB) have selected more than 53,000 flats for upgrading as part of the latest selection of the Home Improvement Programme (HIP).
In a press release on Sunday (Jul 28), HDB said that more than S$742 million will be set aside for works on flats across Hougang, Jurong West and Pasir Ris.
Since 2018, the programme has been extended to another 230,000 flats built between 1987 and 1997.
The programme was initially offered to about 320,000 flats that were built up to 1986 and had not undergone the previous Main Upgrading Programme.
Essential improvements, which are fully paid for by the government, include the repair of spalling concrete, replacement of waste and soil discharge stacks, replacement of pipe sockets with new clothes drying racks and upgrading of electrical load.
HDB said that flats selected for HIP this year will benefit from a new enhanced Corrosion Resistant Repair method for repairing spalling concrete in toilets, which will “greatly reduce” the likelihood of spalling concrete recurring at the same spot.
It noted that spalling concrete is a result of natural wear and tear due to the corrosion of steel reinforcement bars embedded in concrete floor and ceiling slabs, especially in areas such as toilets that are prone to high levels of moisture and humidity.
Flat owners can choose to pay between 5 and 12.5 per cent of the cost for optional improvements. These include upgrading existing toilets or bathrooms, and replacing entrance doors and grille gates.
Copyright SPH Media. All rights reserved.
