SINGAPORE — Despite the fact that any HDB flat that has not been occupied for five years typically cannot be rented out, a three-room HDB flat in Bidadari was being rented out for S$4,100 a month with approval from the Housing Development Board (HDB).

HDB flat owners are required tophysically occupy the flat during the Mandatory Occupation Period (MOP) before they are allowed to sell their flat on the open market or rent it out.