The Homeowner’s To-Do List Before an HDB Renovation
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Loading... - Madeline Abrielle
- 24 Jan 2025
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HDB flat renovations involve many considerations. If you want to make your project less stressful and more seamless, here is a quick checklist you can follow during the planning process.
HDB flat renovations are no laughing matter for us Singaporeans. They’re a considerable financial investment that will also take up a lot of our time and energy. But with a bit of planning, we can avoid costly mistakes and design choices that we might regret later on.
From shopping for the best interior designers in Singapore to familiarising yourself with the HDB guidelines, here’s a quick pre-renovation checklist you can follow so you can have a smoother project ahead.
Define Your Goals
Before anything else, take the time to outline what you want to achieve from renovating your HDB flat. Is it to make your kitchen more spacious? Do you want to increase your storage options? Or perhaps you’d like to convert your current layout to an open-concept type? Once you know what your objectives are, it will be easier to hash out other decisions like design styles and budget.
Make Sure You’ve Got the Money
Speaking of budgets, you should also work out a realistic budget. Keep in mind that the cost of HDB flat renovation packages in Singapore is still expected to rise this year, so do check out the average prices for your housing type.
Of course, we can’t always expect to pay everything out of pocket. Try exploring financing options like renovation loans to ease your burden.
Review the HDB’s Rules
The HDB has a comprehensive set of guidelines that are worth reading up on before you start making any repairs or renovations. The regulations range from your allowed working hours to restrictions when hacking walls or replacing windows.
These all help ensure that homeowners or contractors don’t do anything that could disturb or compromise themselves or other residents in the HDB building.
You should also check the guidelines to determine what permits you need to obtain before you can start.
Decide on the Design Styles You Want
Once you’ve considered your budget and familiarised yourself with what is and isn’t allowed for your HDB flat, start exploring different designs for your home. Do you want to take a minimalist approach, or do you prefer something a bit more eclectic?
Your style should fit both your personal taste and lifestyle if you want to avoid making too many changes later on when the renovation begins. So take your time gathering ideas from design magazines and websites, or even visit showrooms to find elements you like.
Be on the Lookout for Furniture and Decor Sales
It’s never too early to shop smart for your renovation! Go ahead and start scouting for deals on furniture, decor, and materials in advance. Many sellers offer seasonal sales, so planning ahead gives you the opportunity to get discounted items that go great with your design preferences. You could also opt for second-hand goods if you’re not finicky about it.
Shop Around for the Best Interior Designers in Singapore
Last but certainly not least, it’s time to look for an interior design firm to help you get the project started. You’ll want to check their portfolios to see if their style fits the concept you have for your home.
Interior designers come in different price ranges, so it’s best to get several quotes so you can compare their cost breakdowns and see which one has the most reasonable offer. And don’t forget to check the reviews! Testimonials from past clients can speak volumes of what you should expect if you hire them.
Let’s Have a Hassle-free Renovation
HDB renovation projects involved plenty of careful planning and picking the right people for the job. But you can set yourself up for a more seamless experience by following the tips we’ve provided here.
Don’t be ashamed to consult the experts too. Interior designers in Singapore know best how to make your design ideas happen in real life and ease the process for you. Just reach out to them today and they'll point you in the right direction to get the ball rolling.
