When renovating your flat in Singapore, the HDB main door often becomes a focal point — both for aesthetics and security. However, upgrading or replacing your HDB main door isn’t as straightforward as choosing a design you like. There are specific HDB regulations you must follow to ensure safety, compliance, and approval from the authorities.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about HDB main door regulations, especially if you’re planning renovations that include your main gate as well.
Why Are There Regulations for HDB Main Doors?
The Housing Development Board (HDB) enforces regulations for main doors to:
Ensure fire safety
Maintain a uniform external appearance
Avoid obstructing common corridors or walkways
Protect the structural integrity of the flat
Failure to comply can lead to penalties or a requirement to restore the original door at your own expense.
Key HDB Main Door Regulations to Know
Here are the essential rules that homeowners should take note of:
1. Fire-Rated Door Requirements
If your HDB unit opens to a fire escape route (e.g., corridor or stairwell), you must install a fire-rated door. These are specially designed to withstand fire for 30 to 60 minutes and help contain the spread of flames and smoke.
2. Permit Requirement
You’ll need an HDB renovation permit if:
You are installing a new fire-rated main door.
The door opens into a public area or common corridor.
Structural alterations are needed during installation.
Non-fire-rated door changes within the flat usually don’t require permits, but it’s best to consult a licensed renovation contractor.
3. Height and Width Restrictions
Main doors must conform to the dimensions specified by HDB:
Standard width: 900mm to 1000mm
Standard height: 2100mm
Doors exceeding these dimensions may not receive approval unless justified with a valid reason and technical feasibility.
4. Swing Direction and Obstruction
Main doors should not swing outward in a way that blocks walkways or emergency paths. If your existing door does, you may need to apply for exemption or adjust the installation to swing inward.
5. Maintaining External Aesthetics
For units in older HDB blocks with uniform door designs or colors, HDB may require that any new door installed maintains a similar appearance from the outside. This is particularly common in HDB conservation estates.
What About the Main Gate?
When replacing or installing a main gate in Singapore, the regulations are slightly more flexible. However, similar principles apply:
No obstruction to common corridors
Must not damage the surrounding structure
Installation should be handled by BCA-registered professionals
Combining your main gate and main door upgrades can create a cohesive entrance, but both must meet compliance standards.
Why Compliance Matters
Aside from avoiding fines or rework, complying with HDB regulations ensures:
Enhanced fire safety
Legal protection during resale
Long-term peace of mind
Whether you're upgrading for security, style, or space-saving purposes, always ensure you’re working with vendors who are familiar with HDB requirements.
Upgrade Your HDB Main Door with Confidence
At BTO Door, we help homeowners choose stylish, durable, and HDB-compliant doors with ease. Our team stays updated with all the latest guidelines so you don’t have to worry about permit issues or rejections.
From fire-rated laminate doors to paired main gate Singapore packages, we offer solutions that balance safety and style seamlessly.
Final Thoughts
Before installing or replacing your HDB main door, take the time to understand the regulations that apply to your specific flat type. A little planning now will save you from costly corrections later.
Whether it’s about aesthetics, safety, or legal compliance, your HDB main door is more than just an entrance — it’s a gateway to peace of mind.
