Written answer by Ministry of National Development on success rate and assessment criteria for appeals for MOP waivers from HDB flat owners

Aug 6, 2024

Question No: 5993

Question by: Dr Wan Rizal

To ask the Minister for National Development (a) what is the success rate of appeals for waivers of the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) rule for HDB flat owners who are unable to stay in their units due to genuine circumstances; (b) what criteria does HDB use to assess these waiver appeals; and (c) how does HDB support homeowners in understanding and navigating the appeal process for MOP waivers.

Answer:

HDB does not track the total number of unique appeals from flat owners who submitted appeals for waiver of the Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), and the success rate is therefore not available.

In 2023, HDB gave approval to about 1,000 households who submitted such appeals. HDB assesses each appeal on a case-by-case basis. Approval is granted for those with extenuating circumstances such as overseas job postings or medical reasons. 

Owners who are unable to physically occupy their flats during the MOP due to genuine difficulties can approach HDB for assistance.