SINGAPORE – Successful bidders for HDB shops will from Jan 10 have to commit to their tendered rent over two tenancy terms – a total of six years – instead of one three-year term, in a move to encourage prudent bidding.
The measure announced by the Housing Board on Jan 10 applies to those who successfully bid for any HDB shops, including coffee shops and medical facilities.
This comes on the back of concerns over rising rents, after a
general practitioner’s clinic in Tampines was rented out at $52,188 a month
in 2025 when a healthcare services firm placed the record-high bid with HDB.
Previously, when a three-year tenancy was due for renewal, the rent for the next tenancy period would be assessed by professional valuers appointed by HDB.
Under the new measure, this assessment will be carried out after the second term. Subsequently, the assessment will be done after each three-year term.
The Ministry of National Development had said in a written parliamentary reply in November 2024 that HDB generally does not renegotiate rents during the tenancy period, but operators who face serious difficulties can approach HDB for assistance.
