HDB Wall Hacking PE Endorsement

Structural vs non-structural walls

HDB flats contain structural (load-bearing) walls, columns and beams that must not be hacked or altered, and non-structural walls that may generally be removed with an HDB renovation permit. HDB's floor plans indicate which walls are structural. Do not rely on knocking or wall thickness to decide.

What HDB requires

Wall hacking in an HDB flat must follow HDB's renovation guidelines, be done by an HDB-registered renovation contractor, and have the necessary HDB permit before work starts. Some works are not permitted at all, for example hacking structural elements or certain walls in household shelters, kitchens and bathrooms. Always check the current guidelines with HDB or your contractor.

When an engineer helps

• Identifying wall types where drawings and site conditions do not match
• Assessing cracks, previous unauthorised hacking or damage found during renovation
• Providing a PE assessment or letter where HDB, a contractor or a buyer requests one
• Advising on alternatives when a desired wall turns out to be structural

Private condominiums and landed homes

Hacking structural walls in private property is a structural work that needs a PE design and BCA approval — see renovation and A&A works.

What to send

Block and unit number, the HDB floor plan, photos of the wall and a description of what you want to remove.