HDB & Condo Moving Rules in Singapore: Lift Booking, Security Deposits & Permit Requirements Explained

Moving house in Singapore?

Before you even think about boxes and packing tape, read this carefully.

The number one reason moves fail in Singapore is NOT bad movers. It's the building management rejecting access because the mover didn’t follow the strict Condo moving rules in Singapore.

Yes, you can be fully packed, truck ready, movers on standby… and still get blocked at the guardhouse.

It happens every week.

And that’s why understanding these rules isn’t just useful, it’s essential.

Quick Summary: What You Must Know Before Moving

Before we dive into the details, here’s a fast breakdown of moving in Singapore:

• HDB: No permit or deposit needed, but you must move within allowed hours (usually 9 am–6 pm).

• Condo: You must follow strict Condo moving rules in Singapore, including permit application (3–5 days before), lift booking, security deposit ($200–$2,000), and restricted moving hours.

  
  

Missing even one of these rules could mean security blocks your movers on arrival.

HDB Moving Rules in Singapore

Most people think HDB moves are “anything goes,” but that’s not true. Even though the process is simpler than condos, there are still key rules you must follow.

Here’s exactly what HDB expects from you, and the rules most people don’t even know exist.

1. Allowed Moving Hours (You CANNOT move anytime you want)

• Monday to Saturday: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm

• Sundays & Public Holidays are discouraged, especially for large furniture items

• Moving late at night or before 9 am can trigger neighbor complaints or town council warnings

  
  
  
  

  2. No Permit or Security Deposit Needed

  
  

Unlike condos, HDB does NOT require any permit submission or deposit before moving. But that does not mean “zero rules”, most complaints are due to disturbance and obstruction, not paperwork.

3. What Can Actually Cause You Trouble

• Blocking corridors, fire escape routes, or lift lobbies

• Dragging furniture without wheel protection (scratches = fine)

• Using the wrong lift and dirtying it (the town council will charge for cleanup)

  
  

How to Avoid Problems:

Professional movers, like SirMove, install lift padding, floor protection, and wrap bulky furniture before touching a single item. It’s a small step that saves major stress and fines.

Condo Moving Rules in Singapore

Here’s where things get strict. Condo moves are a different ballgame, and 99% of DIY movers get caught off-guard, usually on the move day itself.

Let’s break down Condo moving rules in Singapore step by step, in the exact order condo management enforces them.

1. Applying for a Condo Moving Permit

Every condo requires a Move-In / Move-Out Application Form. Typically, this must be submitted 3–5 working days before moving day.

You’ll need to include:

• Your unit number and owner/tenant details

• Date and time of the move

• Name and license number of your moving company

  
  

Miss this step? Security will block your movers at the entrance, even if your truck is already packed.

Pro Tip: SirMove handles this paperwork for you immediately after confirming your move date. Zero forms to fill, zero stress.

2. Condo Lift Booking Rules

This is where most panic begins.

Condo MCSTs will reserve one service lift just for your move, but:

• You must choose your time in advance

• You get a strict block (e.g., 10 am–1 pm)

• If you or your movers arrive late, you lose the slot

• If the move overruns, security can literally cut you off mid-move

  
  

3. Security Deposit Rules for Singapore Condos

• Deposit typically $200–$2,000, refundable if no damage

• Held for lift scratches, lobby damage, or extended moving hours

• Must be paid in advance; security will not accept last-minute payments

  
  

4. Moving Day Procedures

Once your movers arrive, nobody is touching a single box until your building security clears them in.

That’s where most unprepared movers get blocked.

Here’s exactly what to expect the moment your movers arrive:

• Security or condo MCST will check if your lift booking is verified

• They will confirm your security deposit was paid in advance (not on the spot)

• They will inspect whether the movers bring their own lift padding

• Movers must report to the management office before starting

• Only then does your allocated timing begin, usually 2 to 4 hours max

  
  

And here’s what most people don’t realize:

If you start late, your time is not extended. If you scratch a lobby tile, your deposit is instantly held. If your movers block common walkways (especially in HDB), they can be reported by residents.

5. Allowed Moving Hours: Condo vs HDB

This is a big part of Condo moving rules in Singapore, and where many lose money without knowing.

Location	Standard Moving Window	Extension Possible?
Condo	2–4 hours only (fixed)	Rare. Fee required
HDB	4–6 hours (more flexible)	Usually yes, but must be informed in advance
URA/Mall/Commercial	1–3 hours strict	Almost never allowed

If you go beyond your allocated time:

• The condo will cut off lift access

• Movers must stop immediately

• Full rebooking may be required; another deposit, another day lost

  
  

This is why 90% of delays are caused by poor pre-planning and not by movers being slow. 

Time restrictions are not suggestions; they are enforced.

6. Required Documents for Condo Moving Permit Approval

This is the part that catches most people off guard; permits are NOT optional under Condo moving rules in Singapore.

Unlike HDB (which is more flexible), condos require permit approval BEFORE moving day, and approvals are not instant.

Some MCSTs even process only on weekdays during office hours.

Here’s the exact info most condos demand before they allow your movers in:

• Your unit number + move-in/move-out date

• Mover’s company name & vehicle plate number

• Insurance coverage / public liability (if required)

• Time slot request (must match lift booking)

• Proof of deposit payment (if condo requires it in advance)

Deadline to submit:

• Condo: Minimum 3–7 working days before moving day

• HDB: Usually 2–3 days online via the Town Council portal

  
  

Miss this, and your move gets immediately rejected when your movers arrive.

And unlike what many assume, you CANNOT “negotiate on the spot.”

Security will turn away your movers at the gate, even if the truck is full and ready.

Pre-Move Checklist: Condo & HDB Rules You Must Follow

Before moving day, make sure you’ve:

• Confirmed lift booking + padding

• Received permit approval

• Paid security deposit

• Submitted the mover vehicle number

• Locked exact move hours

• Labeled boxes by room

• Packed essentials separately

• Ensured someone is physically present at the start

  
  

Miss one step, and your move is at risk.

Worst-case scenario?

You pay movers TWICE, lose your security deposit, and still don’t complete your move.

This is why stress-free movers like SirMove are trusted, not just for labor, but for handling all approvals, coordinating timing, and avoiding costly mistakes you don’t even see coming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Condo Moving Rules in Singapore

Q1: Do I need a permit for condo moves?

Yes, 3–7 working days in advance.

Q2: Can I move on weekends?

Usually restricted before 5 PM Saturdays; Sundays are blocked unless approved.

Q3: Is a security deposit required?

Almost always, refunded only if zero damage occurs.

Q4: Can I move without a lift booking?

No, padded lift booking is mandatory.

Q5: What if my move takes longer than expected?

Access is strictly time-controlled; rebooking and extra fees may apply.

Q6: Can I move large items like pianos?

Yes, but confirm with condo management; an extra permit or lift slot may be required.

Conclusion: Stress-Free Condo & HDB Moves in Singapore

Moving into an HDB is straightforward, but Condo moving rules in Singapore are a whole different game. 

Between lift booking windows, mandatory permits, refundable security deposits, building restrictions, and strict cut-off times, one small oversight can delay your move, cost you money, or even get your movers turned away at the gate.

And that’s why the people who have the smoothest, zero-stress moves are the ones who don’t DIY the rules; they let professionals handle everything before moving day even arrives.

If you don’t want your move to be delayed, rejected, or double-paid due to unseen management rules, let SirMove handle everything from permits to lift booking to damage protection.

Ready to make your move? 

Get in touch to request a quote or book a consultation today..

Call us at +65 6534 7345

Email address: talk2us@sirmove.com