Installation of Air-conditioners in HDB Rental Flats

24 Mr Leong Mun Wai asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether air conditioners are allowed to be installed in HDB rental flats; and (b) if not, what measures does HDB take to ensure that HDB rental flat tenants can mitigate the impact of high heat and humidity in their homes.

Mr Desmond Lee: In line with market practice where tenants have to seek landlords’ permission before making changes to their units, tenants are required under the Housing and Development Board (HDB)’s tenancy agreement to obtain HDB’s consent before carrying out any renovation works, including the installation of air-conditioners. HDB considers such requests on a case-by-case basis. Only a small proportion of tenants have made such requests and HDB has generally approved them, taking into consideration tenants’ circumstances, such as medical grounds.

Most tenants rely on fans, which are more affordable compared to air-conditioners in terms of the upfront cost, subsequent servicing and repairs, and electricity bills. Over the years, HDB has also been improving the design of rental flats to provide a better living environment for tenants, including better natural ventilation.