Singapore doubles lift maintenance funding to S$220 million annually

Older lifts get a lifeline as Singapore ramps up funding. Will this end breakdowns and delays in HDB estates for good?

, and Administrator

2026 March 31 . 5:02 AM

1 min read

The image shows a building with boarded up windows and a sign on the side of it that reads... — The image shows a building with boarded up windows and a sign on the side of it that reads "Affordable Housing". There are stairs with railings leading up to the building, and a road at the bottom of the image.

Singapore doubles lift maintenance funding to S$220 million annually

The Singapore government has boosted funding for town councils to maintain and replace lifts in public housing estates. Two new grants, totalling over S$63 million annually, will raise total government support to more than S$220 million per year.

This move comes as part of ongoing efforts to improve lift safety and performance across the country. Last year, the government launched a S$450 million, 10-year Lift Enhancement Programme. The scheme was designed to co-fund lift retrofitting costs for town councils. Now, the additional grants will double the total funding available.

Town councils manage and maintain common areas in public housing, including lifts. Louis Ng, MP and chairman of Nee Soon Town Council, noted that some lifts in newer Build To Order flats are nearing the end of their defects liability period. He added that the grants will be factored into long-term financial planning to ensure sustainability.

Dr Teo Ho Pin, coordinating chairman of the ruling party's town councils, welcomed the decision. He explained that the extra funds will help enhance lift safety and operational efficiency. The government has also emphasised that town councils must plan ahead to secure stable finances for future maintenance needs. The increased funding will support town councils in maintaining and upgrading lifts across Singapore's public housing blocks. With the new grants combined with the existing programme, total government contributions will reach over S$220 million each year. This is expected to improve lift reliability and reduce financial strain on local councils.