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When it comes to home repairs or renovations in Singapore, homeowners often face a crucial decision: Should you hire an HDB-approved contractor or a freelance handyman?

While both options can accomplish the task, there are key differences in cost, compliance, scope, and accountability. Understanding these differences is crucial—especially for HDB flat owners who must follow specific guidelines when carrying out works.

In this article, we’ll compare HDB-approved contractors and freelance handymen in detail. We’ll cover pricing, reliability, job scope, licensing, and suitability for different types of tasks.

What Are HDB Approved Contractors?

HDB-approved contractors are individuals or companies that have been officially registered under the HDB Registered Renovation Contractor Scheme (RRCS). This scheme ensures they are aware of and trained in renovation guidelines for public housing in Singapore.

To be HDB-licensed, contractors must:

• Have at least 3 years of relevant experience
• Pass specific training courses on HDB regulations
• Follow the Renovation Guidelines set by HDB
• Be regularly reviewed and audited by HDB

Hiring an HDB-approved contractor is mandatory if you’re performing works that affect the structure or systems of your flat, such as:

• Hacking walls
• Relocating toilets
• Plumbing and electrical rewiring
• Window installations
• Flooring or tiling
• Central kitchen or bathroom renovations

What Are Freelance Handymen?

Freelance handymen are independent service providers. They may be self-employed or work under a small, informal setup. Many handymen are skilled in multiple trades, including plumbing, basic electrical repairs, furniture assembly, and painting.

Most freelance handymen are not HDB-approved. They operate based on their skill level and reputation rather than formal licensing. While they can be highly efficient and cost-effective for smaller tasks, they are not allowed to carry out HDB-regulated work.

HDB Approved Contractors vs Freelance Handymen: Key Differences

Let’s break down the comparison across important categories:

Criteria	HDB Approved Contractors	Freelance Handymen
Regulatory Approval	Must be HDB licensed	No official license needed
Scope of Work	Major renovation, hacking, piping, rewiring	Minor repairs, installations
Legal Compliance	Fully compliant with HDB guidelines	May not follow HDB rules
Insurance & Liability	Usually insured, legally accountable	May or may not have insurance
Cost	Higher, due to licensing and manpower	Lower for small jobs
Turnaround Time	May require booking in advance	Often available on short notice
Suitability	Best for full renovations	Ideal for one-off jobs or minor fixes

When Should You Choose an HDB Approved Contractor?

You should always engage an HDB-approved contractor for:

• Renovations involving hacking or demolishing
• Upgrading bathrooms or wet areas
• Major tile or flooring replacement
• Changing window frames
• Altering plumbing lines or gas pipes
• Any renovation work that requires a permit from HDB

Engaging an unlicensed person for these tasks can lead to:

• Hefty fines
• Stop-work orders
• Voided home insurance claims
• Removal orders from HDB

Always request the contractor’s HDB license number and verify it on HDB’s official site.

When Should You Choose a Freelance Handyman?

Freelance handymen are great for:

• Minor wall painting or patch-ups
• Fixing door hinges or handles
• Replacing light fixtures or fans
• Installing shelves or curtain rods
• Clearing clogs or fixing minor plumbing leaks
• Small carpentry jobs like assembling furniture

They are ideal for homeowners who need:

• Quick, budget-friendly fixes
• No-hassle bookings with fast turnaround
• One-time help for non-structural work

Many handymen advertise through social media, word of mouth, or platforms like Carousell and WhatsApp groups. Always read reviews or ask for photos of past work before hiring.

Cost Comparison: HDB Contractor vs Handyman in Singapore

Task	HDB Contractor Cost	Freelance Handyman Cost
Install new bathroom tiles	$1,500–$3,000	Not allowed
Hacking wall	$2,000–$4,000	Not allowed
Paint single room	$300–$500	$150–$250
Replace kitchen faucet	$120–$200	$60–$100
Mount wall shelves	$200–$300	$80–$150

For extensive renovation, hiring a contractor is the safer (and required) option. For smaller tasks, handymen may be more practical and affordable.

Legal Risks of Hiring the Wrong Person

In Singapore, flouting renovation rules can lead to severe consequences. If you hire a non-HDB-approved person for regulated tasks:

• You may be liable for rectification costs
• HDB may issue fines or take legal action
• Your renovation work may be revoked or halted

These risks are especially important for resale flats, as illegal work can reduce property value or delay transactions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Person

Whether you hire a contractor or a handyman, always take the following precautions:

1. Verify Credentials
   • Ask for an HDB license if required.
   • For handymen, ask for portfolio or client references.
2. Request a Written Quote
   • Ensure cost breakdown is clear.
   • Avoid verbal agreements.
3. Understand the Scope of Work
   • Check if permits are needed.
   • Know who is responsible for cleanup or disposal.
4. Clarify Payment Terms
   • Avoid paying the full amount upfront.
   • Use payment platforms with traceable records.
5. Get Everything in Writing
   • Include start/end dates, warranty, and materials used.

Can You Use Both?

Yes. Many homeowners work with both. You may hire an HDB-approved contractor for your major renovation, and call in a handyman later for minor adjustments, furniture fixes, or final touch-ups.

For example:

• Contractor handles flooring, kitchen upgrades, and hacking.
• Handyman installs curtain rods, wall art, or replaces faulty sockets.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between an HDB-approved contractor and a freelance handyman comes down to job complexity, legal compliance, and budget.

If you’re doing regulated work in an HDB flat, always choose a licensed contractor. This ensures compliance with Singapore laws, avoids penalties, and protects your home’s value.

For everyday fixes or simple installations, hiring a freelance handyman is a smart choice. They’re faster, cheaper, and offer flexible scheduling.

By understanding the pros and cons of each, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions that save time, money, and future headaches.

Home repairs can be expensive. But the good news? You don’t always need a professional to fix every issue. With the right tools, materials, and know-how, many small jobs can be tackled at home, saving you money over time.

Whether you live in an HDB flat, a condo, or a landed home in Singapore, these five handyman hacks are practical, easy to learn, and budget-friendly. From quick plumbing fixes to basic electrical maintenance, these tips can help reduce your repair bills and extend the life of your home appliances and fittings.

Let’s dive into the top handyman hacks that will make a real difference this year.

1. Fix Leaky Taps Without a Plumber

A dripping tap may seem minor, but over time, it can waste litres of water and spike your water bill. Hiring a plumber for such a small task may also cost you more than necessary.

Worn-out washers or O-rings are the most common cause of leaky taps. You can fix this yourself in less than 30 minutes.

What you need:

• Adjustable spanner
• Replacement washer or O-ring
• Screwdriver
• Teflon tape

How to do it:

• Shut off the water supply under the sink.
• Unscrew the tap handle and remove the cartridge.
• Replace the worn washer or O-ring.
• Wrap Teflon tape around the thread for a better seal.
• Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on.

Money saved: Up to $80–$150 per call-out.

2. Patch Wall Cracks and Holes Yourself

Over time, homes develop small wall cracks or holes, often due to picture hooks, furniture bumps, or changes in humidity. Hiring a professional to fix it can be more expensive than necessary, especially for minor damage.

Patching drywall or concrete walls is easy with the right materials. It also improves the appearance of your home, especially if you’re planning to rent or sell.

What you need:

• Wall putty or filler
• Putty knife
• Sandpaper
• Paint and brush (for touch-up)

How to do it:

• Clean the damaged area.
• Apply filler using the putty knife.
• Allow it to dry completely (approximately 2–6 hours).
• Sand it smooth.
• Paint over the repaired spot.

Pro tip: For larger holes, use a mesh patch before applying filler.

Money saved: $100–$300, depending on the extent of the damage.

3. Unclog Drains with Household Items

Blocked drains in the kitchen or bathroom are a common and annoying issue. Instead of calling for a plumber each time, you can clear simple clogs using items you already have at home.

What you need:

• Baking soda
• Vinegar
• Hot water
• A plunger or plumber’s snake

How to do it:

• Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
• Add one cup of vinegar.
• Let the mixture fizz for 15 minutes.
• Flush with hot water.
• If the clog persists, use a plunger or snake.

Avoid using harsh chemicals like drain cleaners too often, they can damage your pipes over time.

Money saved: $80–$200 per plumber visit.

4. Replace Door Locks and Knobs on Your Own

Loose doorknobs or rusty locks not only look bad but can be a security risk. Many homeowners call a locksmith for simple hardware replacements, but this is a job most people can do themselves.

What you need:

• New door knob or lock set
• Screwdriver
• Drill (optional)

How to do it:

• Unscrew and remove the old lock or knob.
• Align and insert the new set.
• Tighten the screws and test the fit.

You can find quality replacement hardware at local hardware stores or online. This is especially useful for rental units, where locks need frequent updates.

Money saved: $100–$250 for locksmith service.

5. Install Shelf Brackets or Wall Mounts Yourself

Need more storage? Instead of paying for custom carpentry or handyman work, consider installing floating shelves or brackets yourself. It’s easier than it looks and utilises vertical space efficiently.

What you need:

• Brackets or shelf kit
• Drill
• Level
• Wall plugs and screws
• Measuring tape

How to do it:

• Measure and mark the location where the shelf will be placed.
• Use a level to make sure it’s straight.
• Drill holes, insert plugs, and secure brackets.
• Attach the shelf and double-check stability.

Start with lightweight items. Once confident, you can mount heavier shelves or even TVs.

Money saved: $150–$400, depending on project size.

Bonus Tip: Create a Home Repair Kit

Every DIY-friendly home should have a basic repair kit. It saves time, reduces the need for last-minute hardware runs, and empowers you to fix things as they arise.

Starter kit suggestions:

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Adjustable wrench
• Teflon tape
• Utility knife
• Power drill
• Hammer
• Measuring tape
• Wall filler
• Sandpaper
• Allen keys
• Duct tape
• Torchlight
• Gloves and safety glasses

Keep everything organised in a toolbox. Label your containers so you know what goes where.

When to Call a Professional

Some jobs should not be DIYed. If you encounter any of the following, hire a licensed professional:

• Electrical rewiring
• Gas leaks
• Major plumbing issues
• Ceiling repairs
• Water damage behind walls
• Roof damage
• Aircon gas refilling

Doing these incorrectly can lead to serious injury, legal issues, or costly repairs.

Why These Hacks Matter in Singapore

Singapore’s warm and humid weather creates unique challenges — mould growth, metal corrosion, and drain clogs are more common. Rental property rules may also limit extensive renovations.

By knowing what you can fix on your own, you maintain your home efficiently without overspending. These handyman hacks are ideal for HDB dwellers, condo owners, and even landlords who manage multiple units.

Summary Table: Handyman Hacks vs Professional Costs

Hack	DIY Tools Cost	Pro Service Cost	Savings
Fix leaky tap	<$20	$80–$150	High
Patch wall	<$25	$100–$300	High
Unclog drain	<$10	$80–$200	High
Replace locks	<$50	$100–$250	Moderate
Install shelf	<$60	$150–$400	High

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be a trained handyman to save on home maintenance. With the right tools and a little confidence, many small issues can be resolved safely and quickly.

Start with one project at a time. Build your skills, and you’ll soon find that DIY home repairs are not only cost-effective but empowering too.

For more serious work, always hire certified professionals. But for these five handyman hacks, roll up your sleeves and get started.

Homeowners often focus on the visible aspects of their property, such as clean floors, fresh paint, and working lights. But some of the most expensive repairs stem from what gets ignored. Small maintenance issues, when left unchecked, can snowball into costly damage.

In Singapore, where humidity, rainfall, and dense urban living are common, neglecting home maintenance can lead to property devaluation, structural issues, or even health risks. Whether you’re living in an HDB flat, condo, or landed property, this article outlines common home maintenance tasks people forget, and why they shouldn’t.

Why Routine Maintenance Matters

Think of your home like a car. It runs smoothly only with regular upkeep. Preventive maintenance helps avoid sudden breakdowns and expensive emergency repairs.

By regularly checking overlooked areas, you not only extend the life of your appliances and structures but also save on long-term costs. It’s easier (and cheaper) to maintain than to replace.

1. Aircon Servicing and Filter Cleaning

Aircon units are essential in Singapore’s climate. But too many homeowners skip regular servicing.

Dirty filters reduce airflow, strain the compressor, and lead to higher electricity bills. Worse, mould and bacteria can grow inside, affecting indoor air quality.

To maintain optimal performance, clean the filters on a monthly basis. Schedule professional servicing every 6 to 12 months. For heavy usage, consider quarterly servicing.

2. Grout and Sealant Checks

Bathrooms and kitchens often have silicone sealant or tile grout. Over time, these materials degrade due to moisture and wear.

Ignoring crumbling grout or loose seals can lead to hidden water damage. This affects cabinetry, flooring, and sometimes leaks into lower units (especially in HDB flats).

To maintain the integrity of the grout, regrout tiles or reseal joints every few years. Watch for dark spots, gaps, or mildew growth.

3. Roof and Gutter Maintenance

For landed homes or older maisonette-style HDB units, roof checks are critical. Clogged gutters and broken tiles lead to water seepage.

Many homeowners don’t realise that a blocked downspout can cause flooding during heavy rain. It also becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

What to do: Clean gutters at least twice a year. After storms, check for loose tiles or roof debris. Engage a professional if heights are a concern for you.

4. Washing Machine Hose and Drain Checks

Washing machines often operate quietly in the background. However, worn hoses or clogged drains can cause flooding in your laundry area.

Rubber hoses degrade over time. Leaks often go unnoticed until major damage occurs.

What to do: Check hoses every 6 months for cracks or bulges. Replace every 3–5 years. Ensure the drainage pipe is clear and securely in place.

5. Water Heater Maintenance

Most homeowners forget to inspect their water heaters, until they suddenly stop working. In Singapore, storage-type heaters are common, and they collect sediment over time.

Unflushed tanks lead to rust buildup and reduce heating efficiency. Burst tanks can cause major water damage.

What to do: Flush tank-style heaters annually. Check pressure relief valves. For instant heaters, clean filters and test safety features.

6. Electrical Outlet and Wiring Inspections

Loose sockets or flickering lights may seem like minor issues. But they could signal deeper electrical problems.

Old wiring in ageing HDB flats is a fire risk. Overloaded sockets, especially with multi-plug adapters, are also dangerous.

What to do: Don’t ignore buzzing outlets or warm switches. Hire a licensed electrician for a full inspection every few years.

7. Paint and Wall Checks

Flaking paint or bulging walls could indicate water intrusion. Many brush it off as cosmetic, but it’s often a sign of deeper issues.

Peeling paint may mean roof leaks, wall seepage, or poor ventilation. These problems worsen over time, resulting in increased repair costs.

What to do: Repaint every 5–7 years. Choose mould-resistant paint for bathrooms and kitchens. Address moisture problems before painting.

8. Pest Prevention

Termites, ants, cockroaches, and lizards are common in Singapore. Pest issues often start small and escalate quickly.

Termite damage can remain hidden until wooden furniture or structures collapse. Rodents chew through wiring and contaminate food.

What to do: Conduct quarterly pest inspections. Use sealed containers for food. Seal cracks and maintain clean kitchens and bins.

9. Window and Door Seal Inspections

Worn-out window seals allow heat and moisture to enter. This drives up electricity bills and causes interior damage.

Poorly sealed doors and windows also allow pests and dust in. For those with air conditioning, energy loss is significant.

What to do: Check for drafts. Re-caulk or install new weather stripping as needed. Inspect sliding doors and hinges for misalignment.

10. Drainage and Floor Trap Cleaning

Blocked floor traps and drains are breeding grounds for cockroaches. In condos or HDB flats, clogged traps can cause unpleasant odours and slow down water flow.

Ignoring these can result in flooding, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.

What to do: Pour hot water down floor traps monthly. Use enzymatic drain cleaners. Clear hair and debris from bathroom drains regularly.

11. Fire Safety Equipment

Few homeowners check their smoke detectors or fire extinguishers—until an emergency strikes.

In high-rise units, fires spread quickly. Early detection is key to saving lives and property.

What to do: Test smoke detectors monthly. Replace batteries yearly. Keep at least one ABC-type fire extinguisher in the home.

12. Toilet Leaks and Water Efficiency

Leaky toilets waste gallons of water each day. The damage often goes unnoticed, either under the cistern or around its base.

Water bills increase, and moisture can seep into flooring or cabinetry, causing damage.

To check for silent leaks, add food dye to the tank. If colour seeps into the bowl without flushing, it’s leaking. Fix or replace faulty valves.

Long-Term Cost of Neglect

Neglecting these tasks may not seem serious at first. But the long-term costs can be staggering:

• Water damage from undetected leaks
• Fire from faulty wiring
• Mould growth that affects health
• Structural weakening due to pests or water intrusion

Being proactive helps prevent these issues and protects your home’s value.

Summary Table: Most Commonly Ignored Tasks and Their Risks

Task	Risk If Ignored
Aircon servicing	High energy bills and/or poor air quality
Grout/sealant	Water damage and/or mould growth
Gutter cleaning	Roof leaks and/or flooding
Washing machine hoses	Floor flooding
Heater maintenance	Rust and/or tank explosion
Electrical checks	Fire risk
Paint/wall checks	Hidden leaks
Pest prevention	Furniture damage and/or contamination
Window seals	Energy loss and/or moisture buildup
Drain cleaning	Clogs and/or foul odour
Smoke detectors	Fire hazards
Toilet leaks	Water waste and/or damage

Final Thoughts

A well-maintained home runs smoothly and safely. In Singapore’s densely populated living environments, early detection and regular maintenance are crucial. Don’t wait for a crisis. Create a home maintenance checklist and tackle it on a seasonal basis.

If you’re unsure or short on time, consider hiring part-time handyman services. Many platforms in Singapore offer affordable services with trained professionals for these tasks.

Being proactive today can save you thousands tomorrow.

DIY repairs are popular among homeowners in Singapore. They can save money and offer a sense of satisfaction. But without proper safety measures, even small tasks can become dangerous. Whether you’re fixing a leaky faucet, painting a wall, or drilling into tiles, understanding basic safety is crucial.

This guide outlines the essential DIY safety precautions you must follow before beginning home repairs. It’s especially relevant for HDB and condo homeowners who might not have access to professional tools or extensive experience.

Why DIY Safety Matters

Every year, many minor accidents happen at home during do-it-yourself repair work. Slips, electric shocks, and falling from ladders are among the most common injuries. Some may seem harmless, but could lead to long-term consequences.

In Singapore, with tight spaces in HDB and condominium units, one wrong move could damage nearby fixtures or disturb neighbours. Practising safety helps protect you, your family, and your property.

1. Assess the Task Realistically

Before diving in, ask yourself:

• Do I possess the necessary tools and skills?
• Could this task expose me to live wires or plumbing risks?
• Will I disturb structural elements or shared building systems?

Some tasks, such as changing a light bulb or tightening a door hinge, are low-risk. However, others, such as rewiring a socket or fixing ceiling leaks, may be best left to licensed professionals in Singapore.

When in doubt, consult a certified professional, such as a handyman or technician.

2. Read Instructions Carefully

This might sound basic, but skipping the manual or YouTube tutorial can result in mistakes or injury. Many tools and appliances come with specific guidelines for safe usage. Never assume that all drills or wrenches work the same way.

Even common DIY items, such as wall anchors or adhesive hooks, have load limits. Check the material you’re working on — drywall, tile, or concrete may each require different anchoring methods.

3. Always Wear Proper Safety Gear

Wearing the right gear can prevent most injuries. Keep the following essentials in your home toolbox:

• Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp objects or chemicals.
• Safety goggles: Shield your eyes from dust, paint, or flying debris.
• Dust mask: Prevent inhalation of fine particles during sanding or cleaning.
• Covered footwear: Avoid wearing flip-flops when using heavy tools.
• Ear plugs: If you’re using noisy power tools, protect your hearing.

In tight Singapore apartments, flying debris or a dropped tool can easily ricochet and cause harm. Suit up even for “quick fixes.”

4. Power Tools: Know Before You Plug In

Power tools are efficient but can be dangerous if misused. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Check cords for frays or exposed wiring.
• Ensure the socket and voltage match the tool’s requirements.
• Keep hands and hair away from moving parts.
• Use tools with a proper grip and control.

If you’re drilling into a wall in your HDB flat, use a stud finder to avoid hitting electrical lines or water pipes. Many homes in Singapore have concealed wiring, a wrong drill point could cause a blackout or flooding.

5. Work in a Well-Lit, Well-Ventilated Space

Poor lighting increases the risk of accidents. Ensure your workspace is bright enough, especially when working with sharp tools or chemicals. If natural light is insufficient, use a portable LED light.

When painting, using glue, or working with strong cleaning agents, always open windows or switch on the exhaust fan. Toxic fumes can accumulate rapidly in enclosed areas, such as bathrooms or storage rooms.

6. Secure the Area and Inform Others

If you’re doing repairs at home, make sure pets and children are kept away. Inform family members to avoid the space while you’re working.

In small homes or HDB flats, accidental collisions are a common occurrence. A family member may trip over cords or tools left lying around. Always keep your working area tidy and tools organised.

7. Avoid Overreaching or Improvised Climbing

Need to reach something high up? Use a sturdy ladder, not a wobbly stool or stack of boxes. Overreaching or trying to stretch on your toes is a common cause of DIY-related injuries.

Place the ladder on a flat surface and ensure it’s locked into position. If possible, have someone hold it for added stability.

8. Unplug and Switch Off

Before working with electricity, turn off the power at the main switch. Don’t rely on simply flipping the switch off. This includes:

• Changing light fixtures
• Fixing switches
• Replacing plug sockets

Electricity-related tasks are some of the most hazardous. If you’re unsure of how to isolate power safely, do not attempt it.

9. Store Tools Safely After Use

Once done, clean and store tools immediately. Leaving them out is dangerous, especially in homes with kids or pets.

Sharp tools, paint, and solvents should be kept in a locked cabinet or stored out of reach to prevent accidents. Always unplug power tools before storing them to prevent electrical hazards.

10. Know When to Call a Professional

Some jobs are simply not worth the risk. If your DIY task involves:

• Plumbing that connects to the building’s main water line
• Structural changes
• Electrical rewiring
• Aircon servicing
• Pest control

… it’s time to call in a licensed professional in Singapore.

DIY has its limits. Professional services may cost more upfront, but they often save you from costlier mistakes down the line.

Final Thoughts

DIY home repairs can be satisfying and cost-effective, but they must be done responsibly. In Singapore, where homes are compact and systems are interlinked, extra caution is essential. Always assess risks, wear proper gear, and know your limits.

Whether you’re hanging a shelf or replacing a faucet, safety should always come first. When unsure, leave it to a licensed handyman or technician. A safe home is a happy home.