Measures to Prevent Profiteering by Landlords with Launch of PPHS (Open Market) Vouchers for Rent Subsidy

71 Ms Hany Soh asked the Minister for National Development in view of the recently launched Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) (Open Market) Voucher scheme, how will HDB prevent and detect attempts at profiteering or price gouging by landlords that may negate the $300 rental voucher value that is supposed to benefit the eligible families.

Mr Desmond Lee: The Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) (Open Market) Voucher is a temporary measure to support PPHS-eligible families who rent Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats or bedrooms in the open market, while HDB ramps up the supply of PPHS flats.

The PPHS Voucher is disbursed directly to eligible households, without involving landlords. During tenancy negotiations, households need not disclose to potential landlords that they intend to apply for the voucher. Families can refer to the HDB InfoWeb or reputable private property listing platforms for information on market rental rates, in order to make an informed decision before entering into a rental contract.