Bidders for HDB shops must commit to tendered rent for 6 years instead of 3

Move is designed to encourage prudent bidding amid concerns over rising rents

- Isabelle Liew

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.

Mr Nicholas Mak, chief research officer at property portal Mogul.sg, said that while the changes could encourage most tenderers to bid sensibly, some may still overbid for HDB shops in popular areas.