Low Yen Ling on residual current circuit breaker for homes

Since July 1985, all new homes are required to install the residual current circuit breaker (RCCB). For residential premises built before 1985, most would have undergone renovations and have had an RCCB installed. HDB has notified all residents living in one-room and two-room flats built before July 1985 of this requirement and will be progressively notifying residents living in three-room and larger flats built before July 1985. The Energy Market Authority has also notified all private property homeowners of this requirement. For one-room and two-room flats built before July 1985, HDB has conducted inspections and completed RCCB installations for units which did not have an RCCB. For the minority of residents who did not respond to the earlier round of inspections, HDB will arrange for follow-up inspections and RCCB installations. HDB will also work with grassroots leaders to assist elderly residents if needed. The Government will fully subsidise the cost of RCCB installations for one-room and two-room flats built before July 1985. For three-room or larger flats that were built before July 1985, the Government will subsidise up to 95 per cent of the cost. Minister of State for Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling gave this update in reply to an MP’s question in Parliament on Wednesday (Jul 5). She said all home owners should ensure that their homes have an RCCB that is in good working condition.