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HDB flats
Only non-structural walls can be hacked, and only under an HDB-approved permit obtained by a registered renovation contractor. Reinforced concrete walls and columns are structural and cannot be touched under any circumstances. Approved layout plans show which is which — that drawing is the first thing to look at, not the last.
Condominiums
The management corporation controls common property and the building's structure, so any hacking needs their approval on top of the usual contractor paperwork. Expect conditions on working hours, lift protection and a deposit against damage to common areas.
Commercial and industrial units
The landlord or managing agent approves the works through a permit-to-work system, usually against a method statement and insurance documents. Structural alterations go further and need a professional engineer's endorsement.
The wall itself tells you a lot
- Reinforced concrete. Structural. Solid to tap, typically 100mm or more, shows rebar. Never hackable.
- Brick or block. Usually non-structural, but not always — check the layout plan.
- Drywall on studs. Non-structural, though it may carry services.
The approved layout plan is the first thing to look at, not the last. Everything else follows from it.
Before you plan a layout change
Get the approved layout plan and mark the walls you want gone. If any of them are shaded as structural, the design has to change — no permit will be issued and no reputable contractor will do the work.
- #hacking
- #hdb
- #permits
- #singapore
This article is general information. Every property is different, so have the work assessed by a qualified professional before it starts.
