The Unexpected Challenges of Living in Brand-New Estates
A Facebook post by Jane Chai, a resident of Anchorvale Parkview in Sengkang, sparked widespread outrage online. In her post, she compared her BTO flat’s deteriorating appearance to a “haunted house,” sharing images of rampant mould spreading across walls, ledges, and crevices.
Though the flats reached their Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP) just last year, the mould infestation has highlighted issues with maintenance in new BTO estates. Rapid online reactions called attention to the surprising decline in condition for such new buildings, prompting intervention from Sengkang Town Council and even a response from MP Jamus Lim.
New Homes, Old Problems
Jane’s experience is not an isolated case. Residents from other estates, such as Waterway Ridge and Waterway Terraces, echoed similar sentiments. Despite the joy of moving into a brand-new home, many expressed disappointment as mould, dirt, and poor upkeep tarnished their living spaces.
James, a Waterway Ridge resident since 2015, shared his frustration: “The estate started pristine, but now it’s unsightly with peeling paint, unkempt walkways, and mould-covered beams.” Gregory, who moved to Waterway Terraces in 2022, was equally disheartened, noting how the estate’s acclaimed design now seemed overshadowed by poor maintenance.
The Role of Town Councils
According to the Ministry of National Development, town councils are responsible for repair and redecoration, including mould removal and repainting works, which occur every seven years. However, many residents feel these measures are too infrequent to keep up with Singapore’s hot, humid climate, which accelerates wear and tear.
Efforts to address these issues have begun, with some estates scheduling maintenance ahead of their original timelines. Yet, residents like Gregory believe more proactive strategies are needed to preserve the appeal and livability of newer HDB projects.
A Broader Housing Concern
The mould issue is emblematic of broader frustrations within Singapore’s housing market. Amid rising property prices and competition for flats, residents expect better upkeep for the homes they’ve invested in. For many, the current state of maintenance undermines the promise of new beginnings offered by BTO flats.
As discussions around housing intensify, “Mould-Gate” serves as a reminder that creating homes goes beyond building new structures—it also means sustaining their quality over time.
