Written answer by Ministry of National Development on enforcement against neighbours who refuse to cooperate to facilitate repair of spalling concrete or leakages in HDB flats

Mar 20, 2023

Question No: 4342

Question by: Mr Gan Thiam Poh

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what is the current number of uncooperative neighbours who are reported as refusing to work with their neighbours to repair and resolve spalling concrete or leakages; and (b) how many of these cases have required HDB to take enforcement measures.

Answer:

Flat owners are responsible for the maintenance of their flat interiors, including repairs to ceiling leaks and spalling concrete that could occur due to wear and tear over time.

2        For ceiling leaks within the flat, the upper-floor and lower-floor flat owners are jointly responsible for repairs. Such issues can usually be amicably resolved when both flat owners exercise mutual understanding and cooperation in investigations and repairs. HDB also provides financial support through the Goodwill Repair Assistance scheme, if applicable.

3        If the upper-floor flat owner refuses to cooperate, HDB will advise both parties to understand each other’s needs, and may further help to arrange for mediation between both parties, where necessary. As a last resort when persuasion fails, HDB may take legal action to compel the upper-floor flat owner to comply with the covenants of the Lease.

4        Generally, most flat owners are cooperative. HDB is currently taking legal action against seven cases where the upper-floor flat owners have remained uncooperative despite efforts to engage and persuade them to allow HDB to conduct investigations and repairs in their flats. 

5        For spalling concrete, HDB does not encounter any uncooperative flat owners, as spalling concrete occurs within a single unit and does not affect other neighbours.