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Why Are HDB Renovation Guidelines Important?
Renovating your HDB door and gate isn’t just about enhancing your home’s aesthetics or security. It’s also about adhering to regulations that ensure safety and uniformity across the estate. These guidelines are designed to prevent accidents, such as blocked escape routes, and to maintain the overall look of the community.
Replacing Your Main Entrance Metal Gate
Thinking of replacing your main entrance metal gate? You’re in luck—HDB doesn’t require a permit for this renovation. However, it’s not entirely a free-for-all. There are specific rules you must follow to ensure your new gate complies with HDB’s standards.
Do You Need a Permit?
For those who are simply replacing the main entrance gate with a new one, no permit is needed. However, if your renovation involves changes to the door, frame, or any structural elements, it’s crucial to check with HDB for any permit requirements.
Gate Size, Panels, and Swing Requirements
The new gate you choose must be of the same width, have the same number of panels, and swing in the same direction as the original gate provided by HDB. This ensures consistency across units and prevents potential issues with fitting and functionality.
Clearance Rules for Corridor Units
If your unit is along a common corridor, make sure there’s at least 0.6 meters of clearance from the gate to the corridor parapet wall when the gate swings open. This rule is vital for ensuring that your gate doesn’t obstruct the public escape route.
Guidelines for Staircase Adjacent Units
For units situated next to a staircase, there’s a slightly different rule. You must ensure that when your gate is open at any angle, there’s enough clearance equivalent to the width of the staircase. This precaution helps prevent accidents and ensures that the staircase remains fully accessible in emergencies.
Special Considerations for Corner Units
If your unit is at the corner end, you need to be extra cautious. Make sure your new gate does not swing into your neighbour’s window when opened. This not only keeps the peace with your neighbours but also prevents potential damage or accidents.
Replacing Your Main Entrance Door and Frame
Replacing the main entrance door and frame along a fire escape route, such as staircases or lift lobbies, requires more careful consideration. In this case, you do need a permit from HDB. For non fire rated door (or) frame replacement there is no specific guidelines.
Fire-Rated Door Requirements
When replacing the door or frame in these areas, the new installation must be half-hour fire-rated. This means the door can withstand fire for at least 30 minutes, providing critical extra time in the event of an emergency. Additionally, the door frame must include a self-closing device (door closer) to ensure the door automatically closes after use, a key safety feature in fire-prone areas.
Installation of Smoke/Fire Alarm Systems
As part of the replacement process, you’re also required to install a localized home smoke or fire alarm system within your unit, as mandated by SCDF (Singapore Civil Defence Force) FSSD (Fire Safety and Shelter Department). This ensures that your home is equipped with the latest safety measures, giving you and your family peace of mind.
Choosing the Right Digital Lockset
If you’re considering adding a digital lock to your fire rated door, ensure it complies with SCDF’s requirements. Only digital locksets certified with a Certificate of Conformity to SS 332/EN 1634-1, issued by a local Certification Body, are permitted. This certification guarantees that the lockset has been rigorously tested for safety and reliability.
FAQs on HDB Door and Gate Renovations
1. Do I need a permit to replace my main entrance gate?
No, a permit is not required to replace your main entrance metal gate, as long as the new gate meets HDB’s guidelines regarding size, panels, and swing direction.
2. What is the minimum clearance required for corridor units when installing a gate?
For units along common corridors, a minimum clearance of 0.6 meters from the gate to the corridor parapet wall is required when the gate is fully open.
3. Are there specific guidelines for units next to staircases?
Yes, if your unit is adjacent to a staircase, the clearance from the edge of the gate (when opened) to the staircase railing must be equivalent to the width of the staircase.
4. Do I need a fire-rated door for my main entrance?
Yes, if your main entrance door opens into passageways such as staircases or lift lobbies, you need a half-hour fire-rated door with a self-closing device.
5. Can I install any digital lock on my fire rated door?
No, only digital locksets certified with a Certificate of Conformity to SS 332/EN 1634-1 by a local Certification Bodies are allowed.
Ready to enhance your HDB flat with a new door and gate or digital lock? Look no further! We offer a wide range of top-quality doors, gates, and digital locks that comply with all HDB guidelines. Whether you’re renovating or upgrading, we have the perfect solutions to match your style and security needs. Plus, if you’re a BTO homeowner, take advantage of our group buy discounts for even greater savings. Visit our showroom or contact us today for a complimentary consultation and a free quote. Let us help you transform your home with our expert products and services!
