Painting
How much does it cost to paint an HDB flat in Singapore?
Painting is one of the most cost‑effective ways to refresh an HDB flat, but quotes vary widely — and the cheapest is often the one that peels within a year. This guide explains what drives painting cost in Singapore and typical price ranges.
Key takeaways
- Cost depends on flat size, prep, number of coats and paint quality.
- The cheapest quote often skips prep or coats — and shows within months.
- A refresh (selected rooms) is far cheaper than a full repaint.
- Bundle the whole flat and don’t skimp on prep.
Typical HDB painting costs
| Scope | Indicative range (SGD) |
|---|---|
| Per room (walls) | $150 – $400 |
| 3‑room flat (whole, walls) | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| 4/5‑room flat (whole, walls) | $1,800 – $3,800 |
Indicative ranges only — ceilings, feature colours and heavy prep affect the total. Get a free quote for your flat.
What affects the cost
- Flat size and number of rooms.
- Preparation — patching, sanding, priming.
- Number of coats — colour changes and feature colours need more.
- Ceilings and trim — often quoted separately.
- Paint quality.
Why the cheapest quote is rarely best value
A low quote usually means corners cut — skipped prep, fewer coats, or a cheaper paint — which shows within months as patchy coverage, roller marks or early peeling. Proper prep and the right number of coats last for years.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to paint a flat? A single room is usually a day; a whole flat takes several days.
Do painters cover furniture? Yes — protecting and masking should be part of the job.
How soon can I move back in? Usually the same or next day once cured enough.
Can you match my existing colour? Yes, for seamless touch‑ups.
The bottom line
Painting cost comes down to size, prep, coats and paint quality — and the real saving is a proper job that lasts over a cheap one that peels.
Ready for a fresh look? See our painting service. Get a free quote today.
