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Published in: Fire Rated Door

Is HDB Approval Required for Fire Rated Door Installation?

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When it comes to upgrading your HDB main door, many homeowners are unsure about whether a fire rated door is required — and if HDB approval is needed before installation. Making the wrong decision can lead to failed inspections, safety risks, or additional costs.

This guide will help clarify what you need to know before purchasing or replacing a main door in your HDB flat.

When Is a Fire-Rated Door Required?

HDB mandates a fire rated door if your main entrance opens directly to a staircase, lift lobby, or fire escape route. In such cases, you must install a 30-minute fire-rated door that can help prevent the spread of smoke and fire, providing additional safety for residents.

If your door opens to a common corridor that does not lead to a fire escape, a fire-rated door is typically not required.

What to Look for Before Buying a Fire-Rated Door

When shopping for a fire-rated door, not all are created equal. Here are the essential things to check before purchasing:

SCDF-Compliant Certification
While SCDF (Singapore Civil Defence Force) sets the fire safety standards, it does not issue certifications directly. Instead, fire rated doors must be tested and certified by SCDF-recognized Certification Bodies (CBs) in Singapore.

Approved CBs include:

  • TÜV SÜD PSB Pte Ltd
  • SETSCO Services Pte Ltd
  • Element Testing Services (S) Pte Ltd (formerly Singapore Test Services)
  • Singapore Test Lab Pte Ltd
  • UL International–Singapore Pte Ltd
  • SGS Testing & Control Services Singapore Pte Ltd
  • TÜV Rheinland Singapore Pte Ltd

Look for an official certification label—usually found near the hinges or on the door edge. This label confirms the door has passed fire resistance tests such as SS 332 or EN 1634-1 and meets the regulatory requirements.

Always request proper documentation or check with your supplier to ensure the door and frame are both genuinely certified and approved for HDB use.

Fire-Rated Frame

Some suppliers sell only fire-rated doors, but the frame must also be certified. The complete set (door + frame) should pass fire resistance testing together.

Self-Closing Mechanism

HDB mandates that fire-rated doors be fitted with a self-closing device, such as a door closer. This ensures the door automatically shuts during an emergency.

HDB-Licensed Contractor

Only buy from suppliers who are authorized HDB renovation contractors. They understand the permit application process and are accountable for compliance.

Design Variety

Safety doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Look for doors with laminate options, modern finishes, and aesthetic designs to match your home’s interior.

Warranty and Support

A reliable supplier should offer warranty coverage and responsive after-sales service to give you peace of mind.

Is HDB Approval Needed?

Yes.
If your flat’s main door faces a fire escape route (stairwell, lift lobby, etc.), HDB approval is mandatory before you replace it. A renovation permit must be obtained, and your new fire-rated door must follow strict guidelines set by HDB and SCDF.

Let HDDoor Handle the Approval Process

At HDDoor, we make the entire process simple and stress-free. As a licensed HDB contractor, we supply SCDF-certified fire-rated doors and offer full permit application support — all at no extra cost.

When you purchase from us, we will:

  • Check if HDB approval is required for your unit
  • Apply for the renovation permit on your behalf
  • Ensure your door meets all safety and regulatory requirements
  • Handle the full installation professionally and efficiently

How to Know If Your Current Door Is Fire-Rated

Here are quick ways to tell if your door is already fire-rated:

  • Look for a certification label on the hinge or top edge
  • Check your original HDB renovation documents
  • Tap on the door — fire-rated doors have a solid, heavy feel

Final Thoughts

Installing a fire-rated door isn’t just a renovation choice—it’s a legal and safety requirement for many HDB flats in Singapore. Whether your main door faces a fire escape route or you’re simply upgrading for peace of mind, it’s crucial to ensure that your new door meets all HDB and SCDF guidelines.

Trying to handle the rules, permits, and product selection alone can be overwhelming. That’s where HDDoor makes a real difference. From free on-site checks to approval submissions and certified installation, we simplify the entire process, so you can focus on what matters most.