Tue, Jan 12, 2010 - Asia One
From February 1 this year, flat owners who sub-let rooms in
their HDB flats will have to register with the Housing &
Development Board (HBD) within seven days.
They will also be required to notify HDB when they renew or
terminate the sub-letting of rooms, as well as of any changes to
their sub-tenants' particulars. However, there is no need to seek
prior approval for sub-letting of rooms.
HDB said that the new rule will support the Ministry of Home
Affairs (MHA)'s on-going efforts to eradicate loan-sharking
activities, and will better protect HDB residents. Through this,
HDB will be able to capture the particulars of those who rent rooms
in HDB flats.
The requirement will apply to both new and existing cases of
room sublets.
For tenancies that commenced before February 1, owners will be
given a six-month grace period from that date to register.
Meanwhile, for sublets from February 1, owners will have to
register with HDB within 7 days from the start date of
subletting.
According to a statement from the HDB, the following information
must be provided:
Registration may be done either online, or at the branch office,
where staff will be able to guide them on the registration
process.
Flat owners who flout the
rule will face a penalty of up to $3,000. Those who repeatedly fail
to comply with the requirement may find their flat compulsorily
acquired by HDB.
Apart from this new rule, the other terms and conditions for
sub-letting of rooms are unchanged.
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Hey, people, do think twice, think million times before buying
any HDB flat.