New BTO flats are being built more quickly, as promised by the authorities, but do you know what you are paying for? Under the HDB Optional Component Scheme (OCS), since last month home owners can choose to have HDB’s list of contractors install extra finishes such as flooring, internal doors and sanitary finishings such as wash basins, taps and shower mixers.
Clementi Ridges new BTO flats launched in March this year. Photo by HDB.
But at an average of $3, 000 for their doors-only package, it seems many are realising that the package could be even more expensive than having an external contractor who charges from $200 to $330 per door. Some home owners think that the packages are overpriced, but others find the convenience offered a viable option. Instead of having to watch over the contractors themselves, the standard-priced package which HDB offers takes care of the basics for them and they have their flat ready to move into more quickly. It also gives home owners who are unable to pay contractor fees upfront, an option of paying for the fittings through their CPF fund or mortgage loans.
According to a HDB spokesperson, all fittings are installed by professional contractors and supervised by HDB’s consultants. The fittings are also covered under the one-year Defects Liability Period.
