The Ultimate Guide to HDB Painting Costs in Singapore
Owning an HDB flat is a rite of passage in Singapore. Whether you’ve finally reached the end of your five-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP) and want to refresh your space, or you’ve just collected the keys to a resale unit in a mature estate, one of the first things on your “to-do” list is likely a fresh coat of paint.
But as any Singaporean homeowner knows, the renovation market can be a minefield. You’ll find quotes for Painting Services Singapore ranging from “too good to be true” to “downright eye-watering.” This guide aims to clear the air, providing a realistic breakdown of costs, technical requirements, and the “human” side of hiring a contractor in 2026.
Why Painting is the Best “Budget” Renovation
Before we talk dollars and cents, let’s acknowledge why we do this. Painting is arguably the most impactful renovation task you can undertake for under $2,000. It covers up the “scuff marks of life,” hides the yellowish tint of aged plaster, and can even make a cramped 3-room BTO feel like a spacious sanctuary. In a humid climate like ours, it also serves as a protective barrier against the relentless Singaporean mould.
The Price Breakdown: Flat Size vs. Paint Quality
In 2026, labour costs have stabilized, but material costs for high-quality, eco-friendly paints have seen a slight uptick. Here is what you can expect to pay for a full-house painting job (walls and ceilings).
1. The Compact Yet Powerful: Two-Room Flexi & Studios
- Price Range: $600 – $1,100
- The Reality: Because the area is small, the cost is mostly labour. Contractors still have to travel, set up their gear, and clean up. Even if the flat is tiny, don’t expect the price to drop significantly below $600.
2. The Young Family Choice: 3-Room Flats
- Price Range: $800 – $1,500
- The Reality: This is where you start seeing the difference between “Basic” and “Premium” packages. If you have young children, it is highly recommended to opt for the Washable/Easy-Clean ranges. The extra $300 spent now will save you a headache when the crayons come out.
3. The Singapore Standard: 4-Room Flats
- Price Range: $1,100 – $2,200
- The Reality: A 4-room flat usually requires a team of two painters working for two full days. If you have a lot of built-in carpentry (wardrobes and kitchen cabinets), the price might actually drop slightly because there is less wall surface area to cover.
- The Spacious: 5-Room & Executive Apartments
- Price Range: $1,400 – $3,000
- The Reality: For Executive Maisonettes with high ceilings or staircases, expect a “height surcharge.” Painters need taller ladders and more time to navigate the split levels safely.
Understanding Paint Grades: What Are You Buying?
When you browse Painting Services Singapore, you’ll be hit with brand names and numbers. Here is the “human” translation:
The “I’m Selling This Flat” Grade (Matex)
This is a basic emulsion paint. It’s matte, it’s white, and it’s cheap. However, it is not “scrubbable.” If you get a smudge on it and try to wipe it with a wet cloth, you’ll likely wipe the paint right off. Use this only for ceilings or if you are on an extremely tight budget.
The “Living My Best Life” Grade (Vinilex 5000 / Pentalite)
This is the gold standard for Singaporean homes. It has a slight sheen (semi-gloss or matte), it’s durable, and it can handle a light scrub.
The “Health First” Grade (Odour-less / Gush / Raffles Paint)
If you are moving in immediately after painting, or if you have a newborn, these are the way to go. They contain near-zero Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Brands like Gush have even pioneered “air-purifying” paints that help break down indoor pollutants—a popular choice in 2026 for health-conscious homeowners.
The “Hidden” Costs: What the Quote Might Leave Out
Nothing is more frustrating than a contractor adding $500 to the bill on the last day. Always ask if your quote includes:
1. The Sealer (The Most Important Step): If your flat is older than 5 years, you need a sealer. It’s a transparent or white base coat that “locks” the old wall surface. Without it, your new, expensive paint might start bubbling or peeling within months. A water-based sealer is standard, but for “problem” walls with water damage, an oil-based sealer is better (though it smells much stronger).
1. Estimated Add-on: $300 – $500.
1. Moving Furniture: Most professionals will move your big items (sofas, dining tables) to the center of the room. However, if your house is packed with “clutter” or many small items, they may charge a labour fee for the extra hour spent moving things.
2. Toilet/Kitchen Pipes: HDB pipes are usually painted with gloss paint. Because they are metal/PVC, they require different paint than your walls. Most packages charge $50–$80 per area to refresh these.
Why Professional Labor Beats DIY in Singapore
We’ve all seen the Tik Toks of people DIY-ing their room makeover. It looks fun, but here is the reality check:
- Singapore’s Humidity: Our air is thick. Professionals know exactly how long to wait between the first and second coat so the paint bonds correctly. DIYers often rush, leading to a “tacky” finish that never quite dries right.
- The Ceiling Struggle: Painting a ceiling is back-breaking work. Professionals use specialized rollers and have the neck muscles for it. If you DIY, expect to be sore for a week.
- The “Cutting In”: This is the skill of painting a straight line where the wall meets the ceiling or the floor. Pros do this freehand with a brush; amateurs use masking tape that often leaks, leaving a jagged edge.
Ready to start your home transformation? I can help you draft a specific list of questions to ask your contractor to ensure you don’t get overcharged—would you like me to do that?
FAQ
1.How much does it cost to paint a 4-room HDB flat in Singapore?
The average cost ranges from SGD 1,100 to SGD 1,600, depending on paint quality and wall condition.
2. Does HDB painting cost include ceilings and doors?
Most Painting Services Singapore packages include walls and ceilings. Doors, gates, or feature walls may be charged separately.
3. How many coats of paint are included?
Typically, two coats are standard. Additional coats may cost extra.
4. Is it necessary to vacate the flat during painting?
Not mandatory, but recommended for faster completion and less inconvenience.
5. How long will HDB paint last?
With good-quality paint and professional application, interior paint can last 5–7 years.
