Marine Parade resident shocked by broken pieces of ceiling fallen on floor in 51-year-old rental flat
A Marine Parade resident was shocked to see that a part of the ceiling had broken off and fallen on the floor in her HDB flat on Feb 16.
Stomper Fin, who lives at Block 52 Marine Terrace Haven, said it happened at midnight
"No one was hurt as the family was sleeping," said the Stomper, who shared photos of the hole in the ceiling and the pieces of concrete on the floor.
"I was so shocked to see this happen. My family and I just moved in last year in June. The block has been standing for over 51 years."
Yes, the block was built in 1974.
According to HDB, spalling concrete is a common issue for older buildings, especially in home areas with damp conditions, such as kitchens and toilets.
It is largely caused by carbonation, a natural deterioration process. This causes the steel bars embedded in the ceiling slab to corrode, which in turn causes the concrete cover to crack and bulge.
Spalling concrete within HDB flats can be prevented with regular maintenance, which is the responsibility of the occupant.
The Stomper reported the incident to HDB, who told her the ceiling would be fixed.
The cost of repairs and maintenance is generally borne fully by HDB on a goodwill basis even though tenants are responsible for the repairs and maintenance of the rental flat as set out in the tenancy agreement, said the Ministry of National Development in a written answer to Parliament in 2023.
When tenants give feedback, HDB physically inspects its rental flats and carries out repairs and maintenance promptly.
For rental flats that are vacated and returned to HDB, HDB will carry out sprucing up works, such as cleaning and painting, installing new locks, and repairing or replacing any defective fittings. The flats are inspected after the works are completed, before they are let out to new tenants.
The ministry added that HDB also carries out periodic upgrading programmes for rental flats.
As part of HDB's broader rejuvenation plans, older rental blocks may be redeveloped while HDB continues to build new rental flats.
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