HIP, EASE & Reno Grants: What Can Help Offset Renovation Costs?

Renovating a home can be an exciting but costly affair, especially for homeowners looking to modernise aging flats or make them more elderly-friendly. Fortunately, there are several government-supported programmes in Singapore that can help offset these renovation costs. Whether you're upgrading your space for safety, functionality, or aesthetics, the HIP, EASE, and Renovation Grants may offer the financial relief you need.

In this article, we break down what each of these schemes offers, who qualifies, and how they can benefit your renovation journey.

1. Home Improvement Programme (HIP)

The Home Improvement Programme (HIP) was introduced by HDB to address common maintenance problems in older flats. This includes issues like spalling concrete, ageing sanitary pipes, and structural wear, especially in flats built before 1986.

What’s covered:

• Replacement of waste/soil discharge stacks

• Repair of structural cracks

• Re-tiling bathroom floors and walls (for flats where the original tiling is more than 30 years old)

• Upgrading of electrical load

Cost to homeowners: HDB heavily subsidises the cost of HIP. Singapore Citizens pay:

• 0% to 5% of the total upgrading cost, depending on the flat type.

Eligibility:

• The flat must have been built before 1986 and not upgraded under the Main Upgrading Programme (MUP).

• Flat owners must be Singapore Citizens.

Why it matters: HIP ensures the safety and habitability of older flats, helping homeowners avoid major out-of-pocket expenses for structural repairs that would otherwise cost thousands.

2. Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE)

EASE is designed to make homes safer and more accessible for elderly residents, especially those with mobility challenges. It can be applied together with HIP or on its own.

What’s covered:

• Installation of slip-resistant treatment for bathroom tiles

• Grab bars in toilets and near stairs

• Ramps for multi-level units or between rooms

Cost to homeowners:

• Subsidies cover up to 95% of the cost.

• Final payable amount ranges between $125 to $312.50, depending on the flat type.

Eligibility:

• At least one household member must be aged 65 and above (or between 60 and 64 and require mobility assistance).

• The applicant must be a Singapore Citizen living in the flat.

Why it matters: Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among seniors. EASE enables homeowners to create a safer environment for elderly family members, with minimal investment.

3. CPF Housing Grant

While not as widely known, CPF members may use their CPF savings under certain conditions to finance renovation works, specifically for buying a resale or bto flat.

What’s covered:

• Not a direct grant, but CPF funds from your Ordinary Account can be used for renovation after completing the resale purchase.

Limitations:

• CPF cannot be used for renovations unrelated to the flat purchase (e.g., upgrading a flat you’ve lived in for years).

• Subject to CPF Board and HDB conditions.

Why it matters: For resale flat buyers who are stretching their budget, tapping into CPF can reduce the upfront cash outlay needed for post-purchase renovation.

4. Renovation Bank Loans

If your renovation needs go beyond what grants and CPF can cover, renovation loans from banks offer a structured way to manage the cost.

Key features:

• Loan amounts typically up to 6x your monthly salary or $30,000, whichever is lower

• Tenure of 1 to 5 years

• Interest rates between 3% to 6% p.a., depending on the bank

Why it matters:These loans provide fast access to funds for bigger renovations, especially when paired with subsidies or CPF usage. But always ensure you’re borrowing within your means — monthly repayments can add up quickly.

5. In-House Financing: Proceed With Caution

Some renovation firms offer in-house payment plans or financing tie-ups. While this may sound convenient, it’s important to understand the terms clearly.

Things to watch out for:

• Higher interest rates compared to banks

• Hidden fees or penalties for early repayment

• Lack of financial regulation or transparency in some cases

Why it matters:It may seem like a good deal upfront — especially with “0% interest” promotions — but if you’re not careful, you might end up paying much more in the long run. Always read the fine print and compare your options before signing.

Maximising Support: Can You Combine Schemes?

Yes — in many cases, homeowners may benefit from more than one scheme:

• If you’re undergoing HIP, you can add EASE for elderly safety enhancements.

• If you’re buying a resale flat, you may use CPF for renovations after purchase, on top of any other subsidies available.

• Additionally, Renovation Loans from banks can supplement costs not covered by grants, and GST Vouchers or U-Save rebates may help lower utility costs post-renovation.

Conclusion

Renovating a home is a significant investment, but in Singapore, you don’t have to shoulder the entire cost alone. Whether your goal is to make your space safer for seniors, repair essential structural issues, or simply modernise your flat, the HIP, EASE, CPF-supported and Bank renovation financing options offer valuable support.

Before starting any renovation project, it's worth exploring which schemes you qualify for. A little planning and the right knowledge can go a long way in stretching your budget, while still achieving the home you envision. If you are looking for to speak to someone who is experiened in this space. Look no further than Hamid and Sons Interior. We have our own in-house team to assist you with reviewing your financing options.