Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS)
What is SERS (Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme)?
The Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) is HDB's programme, started in August 1995, for redeveloping selected older HDB blocks. The Government compulsorily acquires the flats, and owners are offered a new replacement flat with a fresh 99-year lease. HDB says there are currently no plans for more SERS projects.
Key facts
- Introduced
- August 1995
- How it works
- Compulsory acquisition of selected HDB blocks for redevelopment
- For owners
- The chance to move to a new flat with better design, modern facilities and a fresh 99-year lease
- Selection
- Highly selective, based on redevelopment potential
- Future projects
- No current plans for more, as most high-potential sites have already been selected
- Largest exercise
- Tanglin Halt Road and Commonwealth Drive, with replacement flats at Dawson
As of 6 Nov 2026. Source: HDB, Gov.sg.
How SERS works
SERS was introduced to rejuvenate older HDB estates and make better use of land. HDB picks a small number of blocks with high redevelopment potential; the Government acquires them, and owners are offered new replacement flats at a replacement site.
| SERS | Private en bloc | |
|---|---|---|
| Property | HDB flats | Private strata developments |
| Decided by | The Government | Owners reaching the consent threshold |
| Owners get | A replacement flat option with a fresh 99-year lease | A share of the sale proceeds |
| Status | No current plans for more | Possible whenever owners agree |
Example
The largest SERS exercise covered blocks at Tanglin Halt Road and Commonwealth Drive. Replacement flats were built nearby at Dawson, in projects such as SkyParc @ Dawson, SkyResidence @ Dawson and SkyOasis @ Dawson, as well as Dawson Vista and Block 53 Strathmore Avenue.
Common mistakes
- Buying an old flat to bet on SERS. HDB has no current plans for new SERS projects.
- Confusing SERS with VERS. VERS, the planned Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme, is for flats about 70 years old in selected precincts and is still being worked out.
- Forgetting SERS is a subsidy. It counts towards your housing subsidies for future purchases.
Frequently asked questions
Is SERS the same as a private en bloc sale?
No. A private collective sale is a sale agreed by a majority of owners to a buyer. SERS is a government redevelopment programme involving compulsory acquisition of HDB flats.
Will my old flat be picked for SERS?
Probably not. SERS is highly selective, and HDB says there are currently no plans for more SERS projects.
Does SERS count as a housing subsidy?
Yes. HDB lists benefits enjoyed under SERS among the housing subsidies that make you a second-timer, which can affect resale levies and grants on later purchases.
Related terms
Sources
Every figure on this page was checked against the official government sources above on 6 Nov 2026. See our editorial policy.
This is general information, not financial, legal or tax advice.