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TheHome Improvement Programme (HIP) was introduced by theHousing Development Board (HDB) in August 2007, during Singapore'sNational Day Rally.[2] It replaced the earlierMain Upgrading Programme (MUP), which operated from 1990 to 2007.[2] The HIP focuses on addressing common maintenance issues that arise in ageing HDB flats, such as spalling concrete, ceiling leaks, and outdated infrastructure.[3] It offers essential and optional upgrades tailored to flats, where essential improvements are fully subsidised by the government, while optional improvements require co-payment from residents.[3][4]
Flats are eligible for HIP twice: once at 30 years old, and again between 60 and 70 years old. Initially, HIP targeted flats built before 1997,[5] but the scope has since expanded to cover more flats. The programme's objective is to ensure the long-term sustainability of Singapore's public housing stock. HIP adopts a polling process, where at least 75% of Singaporean households in a block must vote in favour of the upgrading works before it can proceed.[4]
In 2012, HIP was expanded to include theEnhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme, offering elderly-friendly improvements, such asgrab bars,ramps, andslip-resistant flooring.[6] By 2024, over 410,000 flats had been upgraded, with the government investing approximately S$4 billion. The programme's effectiveness has been bolstered by grassroots organisations and community engagement efforts.[7]
In August 2007,Prime MinisterLee Hsien Loong in hisNational Day Rally speech introduced the HIP which would replace theMain Upgrading Programme which started from 1990.[2] Initially targeted at 320,000 flats built before 1986, HIP shifted focus to in-unit upgrades rather than large-scale precinct improvements, aiming to improve specific flat issues like concrete repairs, pipe replacements, and electrical upgrades.[3] The programme's core elements included essential improvements with fully subsidised repairs deemed necessary for public health and safety, such as replacing waste pipes and repairing spalling concrete and optional improvements such as modernisation of toilets, replacement of entrance doors, and installation of retractable clothes drying racks to be decided by residents.
In March 2012, the EASE Programme was launched, offering modifications specifically aimed at improving accessibility and comfort for elderly residents. EASE can be opted into during HIP or applied separately by households whose flats have not yet undergone HIP.[8]
In 2018, the government expanded HIP to include 230,000 flats built between 1987 and 1997, broadening the programme’s reach and bringing the total number of eligible flats to over 550,000.[6] The 75% polling requirement for residents to approve HIP works remained in place.
In 2020, HIP underwent a refresh to include more durable materials and modern features for optional improvements.[6]
During the 2023National Day Rally, EASE2.0 introduced more advanced senior-friendly improvements.[9][10] These include wider toilet entrances for wheelchair users and foldable shower seats. The initiative was part of broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for seniors, alongside other infrastructure upgrades like the installation of more rest points, shelters, and improved safety measures along frequently used walkways and streets.[10]
In 2024, the Singapore government announced that 53,000 flats built before 1997 had been selected for HIP in the latest round of upgrades. This batch covered flats in estates such asJurong West,Hougang,Woodlands, andPasir Ris, with the government allocating S$742 million for the exercise.[11][1]
By this time, HIP had upgraded over 370,000 flats, with a total investment of more than S$4 billion since the programme’s inception.[7]
HIP II is planned to provide a second round of upgrades to flats that are 60 to 70 years old, ensuring they remain safe and livable throughout their 99-year lease. HIP II will focus on addressing any structuralwear and tear that may have developed since the first round of upgrades, as well as incorporating newer technologies and features in line with evolving housing needs.[12]
HIP follows a structured, resident-driven process that ensures upgrades are efficiently carried out while minimising disruption to daily life. The process emphasises transparency, thorough pre-construction assessments, and active resident participation.
Precincts are selected based on the age of the flats (typically those that are at least 30 years old) and their maintenance needs. Flats that have not yet undergone major upgrading works or have recurring maintenance issues, such as spalling concrete or outdated infrastructure, are prioritised. Once a precinct is selected,HDB publicly announces it and notifies residents through official letters detailing the proposed improvements and the next steps.
HDB will then conduct informational surveys and holds miniexhibitions before polling. These exhibitions showcase the optional improvements available to residents, such as modernised toilets, new entrance doors, and retractable clothes drying racks. The exhibitions allow residents to viewmock-ups of the proposed improvements, interact with HDB officers, and ask questions, helping them make informed decisions ahead of the polling process.
Once the mini exhibition is completed, HDB issues an official Polling Notice to all eligible households within the precinct on voting for the HIP works. The polling process takes place over three to four days, and residents can cast their votes either in person at polling centres or online. For HIP to proceed, at least 75% of the households in the block must vote in favour.
Households will be notified of the polling results within two weeks after the polling ended. If the HIP failed to proceed, the block would still be eligible for HIP in the future. If voted in favour of the HIP, residents are given six weeks to select optional improvements and EASE modifications. They can make their selections either in person at Information Centres set up near the precinct or online. Optional improvements include modernised toilets, fire-rated doors, and retractable clothes drying racks. EASE modifications, such as grab bars and ramps, are offered to elderly residents.
Before construction begins, HDB conducts a condition survey to assess the current state of each flat and identify any repairs that need to be made. Additionally, for residents opting out of toilet upgrades, a water test is required to ensure there are noleaks that could affect the flat below. If the toilet fails the water test, the toilet upgrading becomes mandatory.
Approximately four months after the polling process, the upgrading works commence. Upgrading works are expected to be completed in 10 working days.
Once the works are completed, HDB conducts a final inspection to ensure all improvements meet quality standards. Residents are encouraged to inspect their flats and report any defects during the one-year Defect Liability Period, during which contractors will fix any issues free of charge.
After the completion of all upgrading works, HDB sends an invoice detailing each household’s cost for optional improvements. Payment is required only after the works have been completed. Residents can pay viaCPF, cash, or through a flexible instalment plan. HDB offersfinancial assistance for low-income households and senior citizens, ensuring affordability
HIP provides residents with a mix of essential improvements, which focus on critical safety and maintenance issues, and optional improvements that allow for customisation according to individual needs. Additionally, the EASE programme offers modifications to make homes more elderly-friendly, improving accessibility and comfort for older residents.
Once a block has been selected for HIP and the required polling threshold is met, essential improvements becomemandatory. These are fully funded by the government and address key issues related to the safety, health, and structural integrity of ageing flats. The primary goal of these improvements is to tackle common maintenance problems in older buildings, ensuring that flats remain livable and structurally sound as they age. Key essential improvements include:
These essential upgrades are crucial for keeping older HDB flats in line with modern safety standards and providing a safe and comfortable living environment for all residents.
In addition to the essential improvements, residents can opt for a variety of optional enhancements, which are heavily subsidised by the government. While residents are required to co-pay for these improvements, the government bears a significant portion of the cost. Optional improvements allow for increased comfort, safety, and aesthetic appeal, and they include:
Residents who opt for these optional improvements benefit from government subsidies, with their co-payment depending on their flat type. The following table outlines thecost-sharing ratios and estimated costs for the optional improvement package:[16]
| Flat Type | Co-Payment Ratio | Estimated Amount Payable* (with fire-rated main door & HFAD) | Estimated Amount Payable* (with non-fire-rated main door) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/2/3-Room Flats | 5% | S$599.50 | S$594.05 |
| 4-Room Flats | 7.5% | S$899.25 | S$891.05 |
| 5-Room Flats | 10$ | S$1199.00 | S$1188.10 |
| Executive Flats | 12.5% | S$1498.75 | S$1485.10 |
*These estimates are based on HIP projects that began polling after 30 March 2020 and include 9% GST. The final amount will be determined after the completion of the upgrading works.
For households that may struggle with payment, HDB offers several assistance schemes. Residents earning a monthly household income of less than S$2,000 can extend their payment period for up to 25 years. Elderly residents aged 55 and above can defer their payments until the flat is sold or transferred, subject to specific CPF guidelines. In cases of financial hardship, HDB may allow for a deferment of payment, with interest, subject to an annual review. Residents in need of financial assistance can also visithere for more details and information.[16]
Although HIP significantly enhances the living conditions in older flats, the construction phase can create temporary disruptions for residents. These disturbances, while unavoidable, are managed through a series of measures aimed at minimising the impact.
Source:[16]
HDB also provides several temporary amenities to alleviate the inconvenience residents may experience during the construction phase.
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Even with careful planning, challenges may arise during the HIP construction process. To address these issues, HDB and contractors collaborate closely with residents to provide solutions:
Over the years, HIP has embraced various technological innovations that not only enhance the efficiency and quality of the construction process but also minimise disruption to residents. These advancements reflect a commitment to addressing the needs of ageing flats in a sustainable, cost-effective manner.
Source:[20]
One of the most notable technological developments in HIP is theCorrosion-Resistant Repair (CRR) Method, which was introduced in 2021 to tackle the persistent issue of spalling concrete, particularly in toilet ceilings. Spalling concrete is caused by the corrosion of steel reinforcement bars within the ceiling, exacerbated by Singapore's humid climate. The CRR method consists of:
This innovative method was trialled in 2021 in over 300 flats and has since become a standard technique in HIP for managing spalling concrete, one of the most common maintenance issues in ageing HDB flats.
Source:[3]
As part of HIP, fire safety features have been modernised in line with current safety regulations. One key improvement is the inclusion of fire-rated doors as an optional upgrade. These doors are designed to withstand high temperatures and offer critical protection during a fire. Another advancement is the installation of theHome Fire Alarm Device (HFAD), which is aligned with theSingapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) fire safety standards.
Key features of the fire-rated doors include:
Enhanced Locking Mechanism: Modern locking mechanisms provide both improved security and fire protection for residents.
Source:[3]
In response to the outdated bamboo pole system commonly used in older flats, HIP has introduced retractable clothes drying racks. These new systems are safer and more convenient, especially for elderly residents.
The key features include:
Durability: Made from rust-resistant materials, the modern clothes drying racks are designed to withstand Singapore’s humid climate and require minimal maintenance.
Source:[6]
To make the decision-making process easier for residents, HDB introduced Augmented Reality (AR) technology through the Mobile@HDB app. This tool allows residents to visualise and virtually place various HIP improvement options, such as grab bars, ramps, and doors, within their flats.
Benefits of AR in HIP include:
Improved Accessibility: The AR tool provides elderly and less mobile residents with an easy way to explore HIP options without physically leaving their flats.
As part of Singapore's broader effort toward sustainability, HIP incorporates various energy-efficient solutions aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of public housing. These solutions not only lower energy consumption but also contribute to more sustainable living.
Looking ahead, HDB is exploring the integration ofsmart home technologies in upcoming HIP projects. These features could include:
The programme has sparked some political debate regarding priority, which has traditionally been given to wards held by the rulingPeople's Action Party.[21][22] When asked why opposition wards are penalised by the statutory board at aNational University of Singapore student forum in 2011, then Prime MinisterLee Hsien Loong responded, "The answer is that there has to be a distinction. Because the PAP wards supported the Government and the policies which delivered these good things.”[23][24]
