Holding a wake at an HDB void deck: what families need to know

For many families in Singapore, the void deck downstairs is the natural place to hold a wake. It is close to home, easy for relatives and neighbours to reach, and familiar to everyone who knew the person who has died. According to the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment, an average of about 8,000 wakes a year were held at void decks and multi-purpose pavilions between 2010 and 2019.

If you are thinking about a void deck wake, this guide explains how it usually works, what your funeral director will take care of, and what you may want to think about along the way.

Who books the void deck

Void decks, multi-purpose halls and pavilions in HDB estates are managed by the Town Council. NEA states that if you hold a wake in one of these spaces, you need a permit from your Town Council.

In practice, most families ask their funeral director to handle this. The director contacts the Town Council, checks that the space is free for the dates you need, and arranges the paperwork. The Town Council will usually ask to see proof of death, such as the death certificate, and details of the person applying.

Each Town Council sets its own process and charges. For example, Tampines Town Council says funeral wake bookings must be made in person before any proceedings begin. It also lists no rental charge for funeral wakes, with separate charges for electricity and water. Other Town Councils may do things differently, and some ask for a deposit that is returned after the area is cleaned up. Your funeral director and Town Council will advise on what applies to your block.

How long a wake can run

Most wakes in Singapore last a few days. The length usually depends on religious customs, family wishes and when relatives from overseas can arrive.

NEA states that if a wake runs more than 7 days after the death, prior written permission is needed from NEA. Your funeral director can tell you whether this is likely to affect your plans.

What the funeral director sets up

Once the booking is confirmed, the funeral director prepares the space. A typical void deck setup includes:

• Tentage or canopies where the wake extends beyond the covered area
• Tables and chairs for visitors
• Lighting and fans
• A casket stand, altar or memorial table, depending on your religion or customs
• An electricity supply, either from the block or from a generator
• Wreath stands and signage showing the family name and wake details
• Refreshment areas and rubbish bins

Packages differ, so ask your director what is included and what costs extra. Things like catering, religious services, extra chairs or additional days are often priced separately.

Being considerate to neighbours

A void deck is a shared space. Residents still need to walk through it, park nearby and rest at night. Most neighbours are understanding, and a few simple steps help keep it that way.

Noise and late hours

Wakes often continue into the evening, and some families keep a night vigil. Keep voices, music and chanting at a reasonable level, especially late at night.

NEA and the Association of Funeral Directors Singapore have issued guidelines on light-emitting wreaths and inflatables. These say such items should not be switched on between 10pm and 7am, and should not be set up or taken down during those hours. The guidelines also limit each wake to 10 light-emitting wreaths, including no more than one inflatable. Your funeral director should already know these rules, as they form part of Town Council permit conditions.

Walkways and parking

Keep lift lobbies, walkways and fire safety equipment clear. The NEA guidelines ask for a walking space of at least 1.5 metres to be kept clear where wreaths are placed along walkways.

NEA also asks that visitors park in proper parking lots. If you expect many guests, your funeral director may suggest traffic marshals or ask visitors to use nearby car parks or public transport.

Cleanliness

Food and drink are part of most wakes. Make sure rubbish is bagged and cleared regularly, and that spills are wiped up. At the end of the wake, the director will dismantle the setup and return the space in the condition the Town Council expects.

A short note on the notice board, or a word with close neighbours, can go a long way. Many families simply let neighbours know how long the wake will run.

Alternatives to a void deck

A void deck is not the only option. Depending on your needs, you might consider:

• A funeral parlour hall. Many funeral directors run their own wake halls, which are air-conditioned and usually have fixed facilities. This can be easier if the weather is a concern or if your block’s void deck is busy. You can see directors with their own wake halls.
• Your home. Some families hold a wake at a landed home. NEA notes that if a wake at private property uses public roads or State land, a Temporary Occupation Licence from the Singapore Land Authority is needed. Your funeral director can check this for you.
• A place of worship. Some churches, temples and other religious sites have wake or funeral facilities for their members.

Some families also choose a very short farewell or no wake at all. There is no wrong choice. What matters is what feels right for your family and the person you are remembering.

Next steps

If you have not yet chosen a funeral director, you can find a funeral director near you and ask them about void deck wakes in your area. A good director will explain the booking process, what the setup includes and what it will cost, before you commit to anything.