Professional Renovation Solutions for Singapore's Oldest Heritage Estate

Tiong Bahru, Singapore's first public housing estate built in the 1930s-1940s by the Singapore Improvement Trust, features unique Art Deco conservation flats now facing critical infrastructure challenges. These 90+ year old heritage properties require specialized restoration that balances URA conservation requirements with modern living standards.

Renovation Contractor Singapore (RCS) specializes in old HDB resale flat renovation with transparent pricing, certified expertise, and proven experience transforming heritage properties while maintaining their architectural integrity.

Why Tiong Bahru Old Flats Require Immediate Renovation

Critical Infrastructure Failures in Heritage Properties

Electrical System Hazards
Pre-1970s electrical wiring cannot support modern appliances and poses serious fire risks. Outdated circuit breakers, insufficient power points, and deteriorating insulation require complete system replacement. Professional electrical rewiring typically costs S$5,000-S$15,000 depending on flat size.

Plumbing System Deterioration
Galvanized iron pipes installed decades ago suffer from severe corrosion, causing rusty water, low pressure, and leakage risks. Complete plumbing replacement with modern PVC or copper piping ranges from S$2,500-S$6,300 for a typical flat.

Waterproofing Failure
Original waterproofing membranes in bathrooms and wet areas have long exceeded their lifespan, leading to chronic water seepage affecting neighboring units and creating potential legal liability. Professional waterproofing restoration costs S$2,000-S$4,000 per bathroom.

Structural Concrete Issues
Concrete spalling occurs when embedded steel reinforcement bars rust and expand, causing concrete to crack and break away. This structural deterioration accelerates during renovation works if not properly addressed by experienced contractors.

URA Conservation Compliance Requirements

Urban Redevelopment Authority regulations for Tiong Bahru's 20 conservation blocks mandate:

• External facade preservation: Original Art Deco features, green-glazed windows, and architectural elements must remain unchanged

• No unauthorized additions: Awnings, planter racks, or external modifications are strictly prohibited

• URA approval process: Conservation flat renovations require 4-6 weeks approval versus 2-4 weeks for standard HDB permits

• Interior flexibility: While exteriors are protected, interior renovations proceed with proper HDB permits and licensed contractors

RCS Professional Credentials & Certifications

Renovation Contractor Singapore (RCS) maintains all required licenses and industry certifications:

Government Authorizations:

• HDB Licensed Renovation Contractor: Official authorization for all HDB renovation works

• BCA Registered: Building & Construction Authority registration ensuring compliance with national building standards

• BizSafe Level 3 Certified: Workplace Safety & Health Council certification for safe work practices

• PMI Member: Property Management Institute professional membership

Established Track Record:

• Operating since 2017 as specialized HDB renovation contractor

• Licensed to handle both standard HDB and heritage conservation flat projects

• Experienced with URA conservation approval processes

• Professional project management with fixed-price contracts

Complete Old HDB Renovation Packages with Transparent Pricing

Kitchen Renovation Solutions for Heritage Flats

Basic Kitchen Cabinet Package
Starting from S$5,590, this entry-level package includes upper and lower kitchen cabinets with basic countertop and professional installation. Ideal for structurally sound kitchens requiring only cosmetic updates without demolition work.

View kitchen renovation packages and options

Complete Kitchen Renovation with Full Hacking
Standard Package: S$14,390 | Premium Package: S$14,990

Essential for old flats requiring complete kitchen transformation, this comprehensive package includes:

• Complete demolition of existing cabinets and countertops

• Hacking of old floor and wall tiles

• Professional waterproofing application

• New upper and lower kitchen cabinets with soft-close mechanisms

• Quartz or granite countertop installation

• Ceramic tile backsplash with professional grouting

• Plumbing system upgrades and leak testing

• Stainless steel sink with mixer tap

• Under-cabinet LED lighting

• Debris removal and site cleanup

Timeline: 3-4 weeks completion

Bathroom Renovation Packages for Old Flats

Complete 2-Bathroom Renovation with Hacking
Standard Package: S$11,990 | Premium Package: S$12,490

Critical for heritage flats with chronic water leakage and outdated plumbing, this package delivers:

• Systematic hacking of existing tiles and fixtures

• Professional waterproofing membrane application (German or Japanese systems)

• 24-48 hour flood testing to verify leak prevention

• Premium porcelain floor and wall tiles with anti-slip properties

• Modern water closet units with dual-flush technology

• Designer basin with storage cabinet

• Rainshower system with thermostatic mixer

• 20L storage water heater with safety cutoff

• Chrome bathroom accessories (towel bar, paper holder, robe hook)

• Elderly-friendly grab bar installation

• Mirror cabinet with LED lighting

• Exhaust fan for ventilation

• Complete debris removal and chemical cleaning

Timeline: 2-3 weeks completion

Explore bathroom renovation options

Combined Kitchen & Bathroom Packages

Kitchen + 2 Bathrooms Package with Full Hacking
Starting from S$24,990

Maximum value package combining complete kitchen and bathroom renovation with coordinated project timeline and integrated design approach. Timeline: 4-5 weeks total completion.

Compare combined renovation packages

Whole House Renovation for Old Resale Flats

4-Room Old HDB Complete Renovation
Starting from S$30,490

Comprehensive transformation including:

• Complete demolition and hacking of old fixtures

• Electrical system rewiring and circuit breaker upgrade

• Plumbing infrastructure replacement

• Kitchen and bathroom full renovation

• Floor tile installation or vinyl flooring throughout

• Interior wall painting with primer and finish coats

• Custom carpentry including wardrobes and storage solutions

• HDB permit application and management

• Project supervision and coordination

View complete 4-room resale flat renovation details

5-Room Old HDB Complete Renovation
Starting from S$39,390

Premium whole house renovation for larger heritage flats featuring:

• Extensive demolition and site preparation

• Complete electrical and plumbing infrastructure replacement

• Full kitchen and bathroom transformation

• Comprehensive flooring installation

• Professional painting throughout

• Extensive custom carpentry and built-in storage

• Living room and bedroom renovation

• 10-12 week professional project management

Explore 5-room whole house renovation packages

All package prices include GST, professional installation, quality materials, HDB permit handling, debris disposal, and warranty coverage

Old Resale Flat Additional Cost Considerations

Essential Infrastructure Upgrades for Heritage Properties

Demolition and Hacking Works: S$5,000-S$8,000
Old flats require extensive demolition including removal of 30-40 year old kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures, floor tiles, wall tiles, and built-in furniture. Professional hacking prevents structural damage and ensures proper disposal of construction waste.

Complete Electrical Rewiring: S$5,000-S$15,000
Mandatory for flats with original pre-1990s wiring, complete rewiring includes:

• Removal of outdated aluminum or deteriorated copper wiring

• Modern circuit breaker panel installation with individual circuit protection

• Rewiring to all rooms meeting current electrical load requirements

• Upgraded power points including USB charging outlets

• Lighting circuit installation with modern switching

• Earth leakage protection for safety

• Final electrical inspection and certification

Comprehensive Plumbing Replacement: S$2,500-S$6,300
Essential plumbing upgrades include:

• Replacement of corroded galvanized iron pipes with PVC or copper

• New water heater installation and connections

• Pressure testing and leak detection

• Pipe insulation for energy efficiency

• Fixture connection upgrades

• Water supply line replacement from main

Professional Waterproofing: S$2,000-S$4,000 per bathroom
Critical after hacking bathroom tiles, professional waterproofing includes:

• Surface preparation and crack repair

• Multi-layer waterproofing membrane application

• 24-48 hour flood testing verification

• Protective screed layer before tiling

• Guaranteed leak prevention

Structural Repairs: S$1,000-S$3,000
Heritage flat structural issues requiring professional attention:

• Concrete spalling repair with anti-corrosion treatment

• Structural crack injection and sealing

• Unauthorized modification rectification

• Professional Engineer assessment if required

Step-by-Step Old HDB Renovation Process

Phase 1: Pre-Renovation Planning (2-5 Weeks)

Professional Site Inspection
Licensed contractors conduct comprehensive assessment documenting existing conditions, identifying structural issues, noting unauthorized modifications, and evaluating infrastructure systems. This inspection forms the basis for accurate quotation and project planning.

Detailed Quotation & Design
RCS provides itemized quotation with no hidden costs, 3D visualization of proposed design, material specifications and quality standards, fixed-price contract terms, and clear payment milestone schedule.

HDB & URA Permit Applications
Professional contractors handle all regulatory submissions:

• Standard HDB renovation permit: 2-4 weeks processing

• Conservation flat with URA approval: 4-6 weeks processing

• Required documents: renovation plans, acknowledgment forms, official floor plans, contractor license verification

• Professional Engineer endorsement for structural modifications

Phase 2: Construction Execution (6-10 Weeks)

Week 1: Demolition and Site Preparation
Systematic removal of existing fixtures, professional hacking of tiles and walls, protection of retained elements, and debris disposal with proper waste management.

Week 2-3: Infrastructure Replacement
Complete electrical system rewiring meeting current safety codes, comprehensive plumbing replacement with pressure testing, structural repairs and concrete restoration, and inspection and approval of hidden works before covering.

Week 4-5: Waterproofing and Tiling
Professional waterproofing membrane application, mandatory flood testing for 24-48 hours, rectification of any detected leaks, protective layer installation, and premium tile installation with proper grouting.

Week 6-8: Carpentry and Built-In Installation
Custom wardrobe fabrication and installation, kitchen cabinet fitting and alignment, built-in storage solutions maximizing space, TV console and display units, and finishing with quality hardware.

Week 9-10: Painting and Final Installations
Surface preparation with filling and sanding, primer application for proper adhesion, professional painting with 2-3 finish coats, lighting fixture and switch installation, bathroom and kitchen fixture fitting, and final hardware and accessory installation.

Phase 3: Quality Inspection and Handover (1 Week)

Comprehensive System Testing
Electrical testing of all power points and switches, plumbing leak testing and pressure verification, carpentry alignment and functionality checks, paint finish quality inspection, and tile grouting integrity verification.

Defect Rectification
Professional contractors address identified issues within 48 hours, re-test systems after repairs, conduct final cleaning and site preparation, and schedule formal handover walkthrough with homeowner.

Warranty Documentation
Issue warranty coverage documentation, provide maintenance guidelines and care instructions, deliver spare materials and product manuals, establish contractor contact for warranty claims, and schedule 6-month follow-up inspection.

Government Home Improvement Programme (HIP) Benefits

Substantial Subsidies for Pre-1997 HDB Flats

Tiong Bahru heritage flats built before 1997 qualify for HDB's Home Improvement Programme providing significant renovation subsidies:

Fully Subsidized Essential Improvements

• Repair of concrete spalling and structural cracks

• Replacement of deteriorated waste and soil pipes

• Electrical load upgrading to modern standards

• New clothes drying rack installation

• Common area improvements including lift lobbies and corridors

Co-Payment Optional Improvements

• Complete toilet and bathroom upgrades with waterproofing

• New sanitary fittings and modern fixtures

• Fire-rated main door replacement meeting safety standards

• Metal grille gate installation for security

• Additional bathroom accessibility features

Maximizing HIP with Private Renovation
Strategic homeowners coordinate HIP timing with private renovation contractor Singapore projects, complete HIP essential works before starting private renovation, leverage HIP bathroom subsidy then upgrade further with premium finishes, and achieve total government support value of S$5,000-S$10,000 per flat.

Why Old Resale Flats Cost 40-67% More Than BTO

Comprehensive Cost Analysis

BTO New Flat Renovation: S$30,000-S$60,000
New BTO flats start as bare units requiring only installation of new systems without demolition, outdated infrastructure removal, or structural repairs.

Old Resale Flat Renovation: S$50,000-S$100,000+
Heritage and old resale flats require extensive additional work:

• Demolition and hacking adds S$5,000-S$8,000 (vs S$0 for BTO)

• Electrical rewiring adds S$5,000-S$15,000 (vs S$2,000-S$4,000 for BTO)

• Plumbing replacement adds S$2,500-S$6,300 (vs S$1,000-S$2,000 for BTO)

• Waterproofing adds S$2,000-S$4,000 (vs S$800-S$1,500 for BTO)

• Structural repairs add S$1,000-S$3,000 (vs S$0 for BTO)

Total Additional Investment: +67% for comprehensive old flat restoration

This significant cost difference reflects the reality of aging infrastructure requiring professional replacement rather than new installation, but delivers essential safety upgrades, prevents future costly repairs, increases property resale value by 10-12%, and ensures legal compliance with current building codes.

Tiong Bahru Heritage Flat Investment Value

Property Appreciation Through Professional Renovation

Current Market Reality
Tiong Bahru conservation flats command premium pricing ranging S$700,000-S$1,150,000 despite advanced age due to unique heritage character, prime city fringe location with excellent connectivity, vibrant food and lifestyle scene, and strong rental demand from expats and young professionals.

Renovation ROI Analysis
Professional renovation increases property value by 10-12% for typical flat priced at S$700,000, post-renovation value reaches S$770,000-S$784,000, renovation investment of S$60,000-S$100,000 yields net value increase of S$70,000-S$84,000, and positive return on investment within 2-3 years through appreciation.

Rental Income Potential
Fully renovated Tiong Bahru heritage flats achieve monthly rental of S$4,000-S$5,000 depending on size and finishes, annual rental yield of S$48,000-S$60,000, rental premium of 20-30% versus un-renovated comparable units, and strong tenant retention due to quality finishes and heritage appeal.

Contact RCS for Professional Old HDB Renovation

Transparent Consultation Process

Step 1: Schedule Free Site Inspection
Contact RCS renovation specialists for comprehensive flat assessment, structural issue identification, and preliminary renovation planning discussion.

📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +65 8784 8742
📧 Email: rcs@renovationcontractorsingapore.com

Step 2: Receive Detailed Quotation
Professional contractors provide itemized cost breakdown with no hidden charges, 3D design visualization showing proposed transformation, material specifications with quality standards, fixed-price contract protecting against budget overruns, and clear payment milestone schedule aligned with work completion.

Step 3: Review Complete Renovation Packages
Browse comprehensive HDB renovation packages online with transparent pricing, compare kitchen renovation Singapore options from basic to premium, explore toilet renovation packages with waterproofing guarantees, and review specialized old HDB resale renovation solutions.

Step 4: Begin Your Heritage Flat Transformation
Sign fixed-price contract with clear scope of work, professional HDB and URA permit handling, scheduled project commencement within 2-3 weeks of approval, and guaranteed timeline with professional project management.

RCS Office Location

Renovation Contractor Singapore
31 Woodlands Close #03-06
Woodlands Horizon
Singapore 737855

Operating Hours:
Monday-Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Sunday: Closed

Why Choose RCS for Tiong Bahru Old HDB Renovation

Verified Professional Credentials

• HDB Licensed Renovation Contractor with full authorization

• BCA Registered ensuring building code compliance

• BizSafe Level 3 workplace safety certification

• PMI Member with professional industry standards

Transparent Business Practices

• Published pricing for 97+ renovation packages online

• No hidden costs or surprise charges

• Fixed-price contracts protecting homeowner budgets

• Detailed quotations with complete scope breakdown

Specialized Heritage Experience

• Proven expertise with conservation flat renovations

• URA approval process management included

• Understanding of Art Deco preservation requirements

• Balancing heritage character with modern functionality

Quality Assurance Standards

• Licensed tradespeople for all specialized work

• Premium materials from established suppliers

• Professional project management and coordination

• Comprehensive warranty coverage on workmanship

Homeowner Protection

• Fixed-price contracts with no budget overruns

• Clear payment milestones tied to work completion

• Professional insurance coverage

• Established business since 2017 with verified track record

Frequently Asked Questions: Old HDB Renovation in Tiong Bahru

How long does complete old HDB renovation take?
Typical timeline spans 10-16 weeks including permit approval (4-6 weeks for conservation flats), demolition and hacking (1 week), infrastructure replacement (2-3 weeks), waterproofing and tiling (2 weeks), carpentry installation (2-3 weeks), and painting and finishing (1-2 weeks). RCS provides guaranteed timeline with professional project management.

Is electrical rewiring mandatory for old flats?
Complete rewiring is essential for safety and legal compliance in flats with original pre-1990s wiring. Outdated systems cannot support modern appliances, pose fire hazards, and violate current electrical safety standards. Professional rewiring costs S$5,000-S$15,000 depending on flat size.

What renovation works require HDB approval?
HDB permits are mandatory for hacking non-structural walls, floor modifications, installing new plumbing points, electrical rewiring beyond existing points, and window replacements. Conservation flats additionally require URA approval for any works affecting external appearance. Licensed contractors like RCS handle all permit applications.

Can I claim HIP subsidy for old flat renovation?
Pre-1997 HDB flats qualify for Home Improvement Programme subsidies worth S$5,000-S$10,000 covering essential improvements including concrete repairs, pipe replacement, and electrical upgrading. Coordinate HIP timing with private renovation for maximum cost savings.

Why do old flats cost more to renovate?
Heritage and old resale flats require extensive demolition (S$5,000-S$8,000), complete electrical rewiring (S$5,000-S$15,000), plumbing replacement (S$2,500-S$6,300), professional waterproofing (S$2,000-S$4,000 per bathroom), and structural repairs (S$1,000-S$3,000). These essential works add 40-67% versus BTO renovation costs.

What are URA requirements for Tiong Bahru conservation flats?
Urban Redevelopment Authority mandates preservation of external facade including original Art Deco features and green-glazed windows, prohibition of unauthorized external additions like awnings, 4-6 week approval process for any exterior work, and interior renovation flexibility with proper HDB permits. Experienced contractors navigate these requirements professionally.

Take Action: Protect Your Heritage Investment

Tiong Bahru's 90+ year old conservation flats represent irreplaceable Singapore heritage requiring immediate professional attention. Deteriorating electrical systems, corroded plumbing, and failed waterproofing create escalating safety risks and repair costs with each passing month.

Professional renovation delivers:

• Essential safety upgrades protecting residents

• Infrastructure reliability for modern living

• Property value increase of 10-12%

• Premium rental income potential

• Legal compliance with building codes

• Heritage character preservation

Contact Renovation Contractor Singapore today for free consultation and transparent quotation. Don't let your valuable heritage property deteriorate further.

📞 WhatsApp +65 8784 8742 for immediate response
📧 Email rcs@renovationcontractorsingapore.com for detailed inquiry
🌐 Visit renovationcontractorsingapore.com to browse complete package options

Transform your Tiong Bahru heritage flat with Singapore's trusted HDB renovation specialist. Licensed, certified, and committed to excellence.

All pricing accurate as of 2026. Package costs include GST, professional installation, quality materials, permit handling, and warranty. Actual project costs vary based on flat condition, customization requirements, and material selection. Free site inspection and detailed quotation provided upon request.