Oral Answer by Ministry of National Development on applications for HDB rental flats

Jan 14, 2019

Mr Zainal Sapari: To ask the Minister for National Development 

(a) what is the total number applications for HDB rental flats in the last two years;

(b) what is the demographic and socio-economic profile of these applicants;

(c) what is the percentage of rental flat applicants who have owned a HDB flat before;

(d) what are the reasons why applications are not successful;

(e) what are the usual circumstances that lead to the applicant needing rental housing; and

(f) what housing options are available when family support is not forthcoming for the applicants in terms of alternative accommodation.

Answer:

HDB’s public rental flats cater to households with no viable housing options or family support. In the last 2 years, an average of about 7,300 households requested for rental flats each year. The demographic and socio-economic profile of these households is varied. 90% had a household income of $1,500 or less. About 40% were divorced or widowed, and a similar proportion were married. 

Applicants cited various reasons for needing rental housing, such as the inability to afford a flat after divorce or due to loss of employment or medical issues. Close to half of the households in public rental have owned an HDB flat before.

The most common reasons for unsuccessful applications include having sufficient budget to buy a flat, not meeting the citizenship requirement, or having family support for alternative accommodation. 

In cases where family support is not forthcoming, HDB will refer them to a Family Service Centre for mediation or counselling assistance. If mediation is unsuccessful, and the applicants cannot afford to buy a flat, HDB will be prepared to offer an interim rental or a public rental flat.