HDB will raise the total number of Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) flats to 880 by end-2021, Minister for National Development Lawrence Wong stated in Parliament on May 26.

Currently, the number of PPHS flats stands at about 680, with 550 of them occupied.

Wong added that HDB's plan was to add about 200 more flats by the end of 2021.

His answer was given in response to Member of Parliament (MP) Henry Kwek, who asked if on HDB would ensure an adequate number of flats under the PPHS for young couples, who might be looking to start a family, amidst the increased uncertainty brought about by Covid-19.

What is the PPHS?

The PPHS provides an additional option for temporary housing for married couples awaiting the completion of their new HDB flats.

Previously, PPHS flats were mainly in vacated blocks that were not immediately needed for redevelopment.

However, in recent years, HDB has added more permanent sources of flats for the scheme.

Wong added that HDB will continue to monitor the development and review the supply of these flats, with the long-term aim of ensuring that there is a "small and steady supply".

No change to rules on renting HDB and private residential properties

In addition, no changes will be made to the rules on renting HDB and private residential properties.

Currently, HDB flats have a minimum rental period of six months, while private residential properties have a minimum stay duration of three months.

Wong was responding to a question raised by Workers' Party MP Sylvia Lim.

She asked whether the Urban Redevelopment Authority and HDB would permit rentals of residences that are shorter than the stipulated periods, in order to to provide accommodation for families displaced by construction work delays caused by the Covid-19 circuit breaker measures.

On this matter, Wong stated that in view of the Covid-19 outbreak, both HDB and URA have been "exercising flexibility" on a case-by-case basis for households which are "are in genuine difficulty and need temporary accommodation."

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