HDB Approved Contractor: Do You Need One for Painting? (DRC Explained)
When people say “HDB approved contractor”, they usually mean a contractor listed in HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC). HDB requires flat owners to use DRC-listed contractors for renovation works that need an HDB permit, such as hacking walls or some structural changes. Repainting the inside of your flat doesn’t need a permit. But choosing a DRC-listed or CaseTrust-accredited contractor is still a useful sign of credibility, especially if painting is part of a bigger renovation.
This is a general summary. Check the latest renovation guidelines and DRC search on the HDB website before starting works.
Approved, registered, licensed: what the terms mean
| Term people use | What it usually refers to |
|---|---|
| HDB approved / registered / listed contractor | A contractor in HDB’s Directory of Renovation Contractors (DRC) |
| HDB licensed contractor | Usually also means DRC-listed. HDB doesn’t issue a separate “painting licence” |
| CaseTrust accredited | Accreditation by the Consumers Association of Singapore for renovation businesses |
| BCA licensed | Building and Construction Authority licensing, relevant for certain building works |
When HDB requires a DRC contractor
HDB requires owners to engage DRC-listed contractors for renovation works that need a permit. Examples typically include hacking or removing walls, some floor and bathroom works, and changes affecting the structure. The exact list is in HDB’s renovation guidelines.
Does painting need an HDB approved contractor?
Interior repainting is minor work that doesn’t need an HDB permit, so HDB doesn’t require a DRC contractor for painting alone. Still:
- Renovation hours still apply. See HDB painting rules
- If your painter also builds partition walls or does other renovation, check whether those works need a permit and a DRC contractor
- Choose a registered business with insured workers either way
How to check a contractor
- Ask for the company name and UEN, and check ACRA BizFile
- Search HDB’s DRC directory if the job includes permit works
- Check CaseTrust status if relevant
- Ask about work injury compensation and public liability insurance
- Get an itemised written quote
More in how to choose a painter in Singapore.
Skip the checking. Every painter in our network has shown us their business registration, insurance and recent work. See how we vet or get quotes.
FAQ
Do I need an HDB approved contractor to paint my flat?
No permit is needed for interior painting, so HDB doesn’t require a DRC contractor for painting alone.
What is the HDB DRC?
The Directory of Renovation Contractors is HDB’s list of contractors allowed to carry out renovation works that need HDB permits.
Is CaseTrust the same as HDB approved?
No. CaseTrust is a separate accreditation by the Consumers Association of Singapore for business practices.
