How to Make Sure You’re Hiring a Reliable HDB Contractor

Are you looking for a contractor to handle your HDB flat renovation? This won’t be much of a problem if your interior design service in Singapore is a design-build firm, as it would mean they’d handle the construction phase of the project for you as well.

But if you still need to search for someone else to get the renovation started, then here’s a quick guide to help you make the right choice.

Check if They’re HDB-approved

You should always search for a contractor that’s listed in the Directory of Renovation Contractors whenever you’re getting work done on an HDB flat. Only these professionals are qualified to carry out renovations in HDB’s residences since they have the training and knowledge to comply with the authority’s guidelines.

But do be warned — being listed in the DRC doesn’t automatically guarantee high-quality workmanship. You still have to conduct further research.

Consult Your Interior Designer Too

If you’ve already hired an interior design service in Singapore, don’t hesitate to ask them if they can recommend any contractors too. They’re likely to suggest people that they’ve already worked with on previous renovations, so they’ve built a rapport with them already. This can make your project run more smoothly.

How Easy Are They to Contact?

Have you found a contractor that’s hard to get in touch with even when you’re still shopping around for quotes? That’s a big red flag on their part. It shows that you’ll have difficulties communicating with them during the renovation itself. This can cause problems when you want updates on their progress.

An ideal renovation contractor should be easy to reach through various channels (or provide you with a dedicated point of contact) and able to respond quickly to your inquiries.

Check Their Portfolio and Clients

Just like how interior design services in Singapore showcase their past works to reel people in, so should a reliable renovation contractor. It’s a direct reflection of their experience and craftsmanship. See if their previous projects are quite similar to the look you want for your home. You could check if they have a website or social media pages with galleries of their works.

It would also be a good idea to ask their past clients as well. Some questions to consider include:

• How satisfied are they with the quality of work?
• Did they experience any issues with their home after the renovation?
• Did the contractor follow the agreed-upon timeline and budget?
• How well did they handle problems?
• Would they hire the contractor for future projects?

A Cheap Quote Isn’t Always Worth It

It's tempting to go for the lowest bidder when you think of the average cost of HDB renovations nowadays. But a ridiculously low price is often too good to be true.

An initial low bid can quickly balloon with charges for extra services and materials that aren’t part of the contract.

These contractors often charge for cheap because they cut corners by using substandard materials or hiring inexperienced labourers. You're more likely to have issues with the finished work later on.

It’s also possible that the contractor isn’t properly insured. This would put you at risk of liability if accidents happen to their workers.

When comparing quotes from several contractors, always check if they have a detailed breakdown of all the costs involved in the project. Their prices should be reasonable enough for the type of work being done to your home.

Choose Your Contractor Wisely

The best renovation contractor in Singapore for your HDB renovation isn’t the cheapest or the most popular. What matters is that they have the proper credentials, happy clients, and the capability to provide value for money. You won’t just have a successful project if you choose someone who can work well with you. You’ll get a home that you’ll love to live in.

So if you want to transform your flat into your dream home, explore your options for contractors carefully. They can make all the difference in whether your concepts can become a reality.