steps to appeal HDB valuation disputes

Buying or selling a flat is one of the most significant financial decisions for many Singaporeans. When you're dealing with an HDB resale flat, the property's valuation plays a critical role—especially in determining the Cash Over Valuation (COV). However, what happens if you feel the HDB valuation is too low or inaccurate? Is there a way to challenge it?

Yes, there is. This article will guide you step-by-step through how to appeal HDB valuation disputes, what you need to prepare, and what to expect during the process.

? What Is an HDB Valuation?

An HDB valuation is the official estimate of a resale flat’s value, provided by a licensed valuer appointed by HDB. It determines how much CPF savings and home loan financing can be used for the purchase.

The valuation directly affects:

The loan amount a buyer can get
The CPF usage limit
The Cash Over Valuation (COV) to be paid in cash

? When Should You Appeal an HDB Valuation?

Not all valuations are appealable. HDB valuations are based on recent transactions of similar units in the same area. But if you believe your flat or the one you're buying has unique characteristics that weren’t considered—such as premium renovations, unblocked views, or corner-unit status—you might have a case.

You might consider appealing if:

You think the valuer did not consider recent similar sales
The flat has significant upgrades that enhance value
There's a notable difference in valuation from similar nearby units
There is a substantial drop in valuation compared to earlier estimates

⚠️ Important Note Before You Begin

HDB only accepts appeals from the person who requested the valuation—typically the buyer. Also, HDB has strict policies and generally stands by its appointed valuer’s decision, so appeals should be well-supported.

✅ Step-by-Step Guide: How to Appeal HDB Valuation

1. Get the Valuation Report First

Before you can appeal, you must first request the valuation through the HDB Resale Portal. This is usually done after you and the seller have agreed on a price but before submitting the resale application.

You’ll receive a report within 5-7 working days.
It will show the official valuation and validity period (typically 3 months).

2. Review the Valuation Report Carefully

Take a close look at:

How the valuation compares with recent transaction prices nearby
The type of units used for comparison (floor, location, size, condition)
Any unique factors in your unit that may not have been considered

Pro tip: Use the HDB Flat Portal or SRX to compare recent sales of similar flats.

3. Gather Supporting Documents and Evidence

Before filing an appeal, you must build a strong case. Some useful evidence includes:

Photos of high-end renovations (built-in wardrobes, marble flooring, etc.)
Contractor invoices or renovation costs
Proof of recent sales for similar, higher-valued units nearby
Floor plans showing unique layout features
Letters from licensed property agents with market value justifications

4. Submit Your Appeal to HDB

HDB does not have an official appeal form for valuations. However, you can email them directly at:
? hdbresale@mailbox.hdb.gov.sg

Include the following in your email:

Flat address
Valuation Reference Number (from the original request)
Reason for appeal
Supporting evidence (attachments like invoices, photos, sales data)

Keep your message clear and concise, and state why you believe the valuation should be reviewed.

5. Wait for HDB’s Response

HDB will review your appeal and may:

Ask for more supporting documents
Assign a different valuer for re-evaluation (rare)
Reject the appeal with reasons

⚠️ Be patient. The appeal process can take up to 2 to 3 weeks.

6. Understand the Outcome

In most cases, HDB does not change the valuation unless there is clear, compelling evidence. However, if your appeal is successful:

A new valuation report will be issued
CPF and housing loan limits will be updated accordingly
COV will be recalculated based on the revised value

If the appeal is unsuccessful, you’ll need to decide whether:

To proceed with the purchase and pay the COV
Renegotiate the price with the seller
Walk away from the deal

? Additional Tips for Dealing with Valuation Disputes

? Work With a Property Agent

An experienced agent can:

Advise on realistic pricing
Help compile strong comparative sales evidence
Handle the appeal on your behalf (as your representative)

? Avoid Overpaying Due to Emotions

Buyers often overpay based on emotional attachment to a unit. Always cross-check with recent transactions to avoid paying an unnecessarily high COV.

? Appeal Quickly

Once the valuation report is issued, appeals should be submitted within 1-2 weeks to avoid delays in the transaction timeline.

? Conclusion: Is It Worth Appealing?

Appealing an HDB valuation is not guaranteed to succeed, but it's worth trying if you have strong, fact-based arguments. Always support your appeal with tangible evidence and comparative data. Remember, your goal is not just to challenge the valuer, but to show that the flat truly holds more market value than estimated.

Buying or selling property in Singapore’s HDB market can be complex, but being well-informed helps you navigate it better—and maybe even save you thousands in unnecessary cash payments.