Installation of CCTV Cameras by HDB Flat Owners at Unit’s Main Door or Metal Gate and Number of Cases Lodged against Such Installation in Last Three Years and Actions Taken
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the regulations regarding HDB flat owners installing CCTV cameras facing common corridors and the volume of complaints lodged. Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked about the legality of such installations and the actions taken against those who violate privacy rules. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee clarified that while generally prohibited, exceptions are granted for safety issues if supported by a Police report and Town Council approval. Approved cameras must not face other units and are limited to a six-month duration. Minister for National Development Desmond Lee stated that HDB received 361 feedback cases over three years and mandates the removal of any unauthorized cameras.
Transcript
63 Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether HDB flat owners are allowed to install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras at their unit's main door or metal gate facing the common corridor/area; (b) in the past three years, what is the number of cases lodged with HDB by flat owners pertaining to their neighbours installing CCTV cameras at their unit's main door or metal gate; and (c) what are the actions taken for such reported cases.
Mr Desmond Lee: HDB flat owners are not allowed to install CCTV cameras at their unit's main door facing the common corridor or common areas, to protect the privacy of their neighbours. However, residents may install CCTV cameras at the main door if they are facing safety issues, such as harassment from unlicensed moneylenders. In such situations, the CCTV footage could aid the Police in the investigation.
All requests for installation of CCTV cameras facing the common corridors or common areas must be supported by a Police report. If the installation is outside the flat, the Town Council's approval will also be required. The CCTV camera must not face the door or windows of another flat, and the installation is only allowed for a period of 6 months and has to be removed thereafter.
In the last three years, HDB received about 361 cases of feedback from residents on CCTV camera-related disamenities. In such cases, HDB will look into the feedback, and if it finds that the resident has not sought HDB's approval to install the CCTV cameras, HDB will ask that the cameras be removed.