File photo of HDB flats. (Photo: Hester Tan)

SINGAPORE: The Government has spent S$1.93 billion on improvement works for older flats since the launch of the Home Improvement Programme (HIP) in 2007 until Mar 31 this year, the Housing and Development Board (HDB) said on Saturday (Dec 30).

The HIP is for HDB flats built up to 1986 that have not undergone the Main Upgrading Programme.

A further S$40 million was spent under the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) scheme, which retrofits flats with elderly-friendly fittings, HDB added. EASE is usually offered together with HIP to make it more convenient for home owners, as improvement works can be carried out at the same time.

Since the introduction of EASE in July 2012, close to 149,000 households have applied for the scheme as of end-November this year. About 97,000 households opted for the programme together with HIP, while 52,000 households applied for it under the Direct Application scheme.

HIP focuses on improvements within the flat and helps residents deal with common maintenance problems related to ageing flats. There are three main components of work under HIP – Essential, Optional and EASE improvements.

The essential improvements enhance public health and safety standards, and include the repair of spalling concrete or structural cracks and the replacement of pipe sockets with new clothes drying racks. These are fully paid for by the Government.

There are also optional components under the scheme – such as packages to upgrade existing toilets, and the replacement of main doors, gates and refuse chute hoppers. The EASE improvements comprise slip-resistant treatment for toilet floor tiles, and installation of grab bars and ramps. Home owners have to pay for the combination of improvement works they require depending on their needs, but these are heavily subsidised by up to 95 per cent, with more help given to smaller flats.

As of Nov 30, 101,000 flats from 113 projects have completed upgrading works. Another 139,400 flats from 139 projects are in various stages of progress. The remaining eligible flats will be selected by the end of next year.

According to HDB, HIP will only proceed when at least 75 per cent of a block’s eligible Singaporean households have voted in favour of the programme.

Mr Chew Ang Moh, 70, is one of those who upgraded their homes under the HIP and EASE programmes. Though able-bodied, Mr Chew, who lives with his 65-year-old wife, son and three grandchildren in a four-room flat, said he opted for the EASE improvements in anticipation of the day when getting around would become more challenging.

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