Hougang resident removes flower pots from parapet after neighbours raise safety concerns

A Hougang resident who hung flower pots on the parapet outside his HDB flat has moved them, following concerns over safety as raised by his neighbours.

A resident told Shin Min Daily News that the flower pots, seen hanging from the parapet of Block 546 Hougang Street 51, could pose a danger if they fell.

The plants and pots were moved into the corridor on June 17.

The homeowner explained that the plant racks and brackets were left behind by the previous owner, and he had simply continued to use them. While two pots had been hanging from the parapet "for some time", he said no one had previously raised any objections.

"If anyone feels uneasy about this, they can talk to us directly. We're reasonable people. If they think it's a safety issue, we're happy to move the flower pots," he said, adding that he was disappointed by the lack of neighbourly communication.

"Everyone is used to complaining first, but no one wants to take the initiative to communicate first. It's not a healthy social atmosphere."

The homeowner also shared that the herbs and curry leaves he planted outside his door were often stolen, despite his efforts to deter this by putting up signs.

He had considered installing CCTV cameras, but hesitated as he was unsure whether it would be allowed in a shared public space.

According to the HDB website, homeowners who wish to install CCTV cameras or CCTV-like devices outside their flat should approach the Town Council managing their area for advice.

Standalone CCTV cameras should not face the door or windows of another flat, nor be installed at areas such as on the building façade.