Do I Need An Hdb-registered Contractor?

[vinzbiz 0]

Hi all, I would appreciate some advise here.

Recently I signed on a renovation contractor to carry out works at my resale HDB 4-room flat (haven't paid deposit yet though) but found out that he is not registered with HDB. He claimed that I don't really need an HDB-registered contractor as my works are all minor and that everybody else is doing it. However, if I insist he said he can get his "partner's" company to register the renovation permit for me.

My renovation works are basically to remove and install new kitchen cabinet, rubbish chute, kitchen sink, bathroom windows, convert squatting to sitting w/c, partially remove and replace some bulging wall tiles, replace wash basins, replace bedroom doors, and plastering some walls and ceiling).

I am quite disturbed as I found a discrepancy between his proposed works and HDB regulations, e.g. plastering of ceiling is not allowed according to HDB website, yet he did not advise me. He countered that not everything has to follow HDB law... and that everyone else is doing it.

So, can I get some advise from experienced forumers here... is getting a non-HDB registered contractor common and is it advisable? Also, how strict is HDB in implementing the do's and don'ts spelt out in their website? I don't want to get into trouble later when selling the flat in future.

Many thanks in advance.