How To Hold A HDB Tentage Funeral & What To Look Out For

In Singapore, a tentage funeral is a common option for honouring a loved one, especially among those who live in Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats.

Holding a tentage funeral at an HDB void deck offers several benefits, such as convenience for family members and allowing neighbours and friends to pay their respects easily.

However, organising a void deck funeral involves certain considerations and logistical requirements to ensure everything proceeds smoothly and respectfully.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to hold an HDB tentage funeral in Singapore and what key factors to keep in mind.

How To Hold A Tentage Funeral In Singapore

1. Obtain the Necessary Approvals and Permits

In Singapore, holding a tentage funeral at an HDB void deck requires approval from the relevant authorities, including HDB and sometimes the Town Council.

Families need to check if the void deck space is available for the funeral dates and whether there are any specific restrictions in place.

Booking the Void Deck: Approach your Town Council as early as possible to reserve the void deck for the funeral period, which typically lasts between three to five days, depending on the family’s preferences and religious customs.

Permit for Tentage: After booking the void deck, you’ll need a permit to set up the tentage. Most funeral service providers can assist with this step, as they are familiar with the local regulations and permit requirements.

2. Engage a Professional Funeral Service Provider

Engaging a professional funeral service provider simplifies the process and ensures that the event is handled with care and professionalism.

Full-Service Arrangements: Funeral providers can handle a variety of needs, from tentage setup to catering and funeral logistics.

They also take care of religious rituals, floral arrangements, and administrative paperwork, allowing families to focus on mourning and supporting each other.

Experience with Void Deck Funerals: Choose a provider experienced in conducting HDB tentage funerals, as they will understand the specific needs of a void deck setup and be familiar with Town Council regulations and space limitations.

Transparent Pricing: In Singapore, there are different funeral packages to suit various budgets. Be sure to confirm all costs upfront to avoid unexpected expenses.

Packages may vary based on tentage size, decorations, catering, and additional services such as hearse transport or live streaming.

A reputable funeral service provider takes much of the logistical burden off the family, ensuring that the funeral proceeds smoothly and respectfully.

3. Consider the Space and Tentage Setup

Setting up a tentage at an HDB void deck requires careful planning, as space constraints and HDB guidelines must be respected.

Tentage Size and Layout: The layout should maximise the available space without obstructing residents’ walkways or access to common areas.

You may need to consider the number of tables, seating, and areas for religious items, such as altars or offering tables, based on the expected number of visitors.

Ventilation and Lighting: Since void deck areas can be warm, it’s essential to ensure proper ventilation by setting up fans around the tentage. 

Additionally, check with the funeral provider for adequate lighting arrangements, especially if the wake will continue into the evening.

4. Arrange for Rituals and Ceremonial Needs

A void deck funeral typically includes various rituals, depending on the religious or cultural practices of the deceased and their family. Make arrangements to accommodate these practices respectfully and in accordance with HDB regulations.

Religious Altars and Offerings: Ensure that there’s adequate space for the altar, which is central to many religious rites.

Scheduled Rituals: Some religious customs involve chanting, prayer sessions, or other rituals that may generate sound. As a gesture of courtesy, inform neighbours about the funeral schedule in advance, and try to limit noisy rituals during late-night hours.

Ceremonial Offerings and Burnings: For Taoist or Buddhist funerals, joss paper and incense burning may be customary.

The funeral provider can guide you on specific requirements for Buddhist, Taoist, Christian, Muslim, or Hindu funeral customs, including the necessary items for the altar. 

Holding an HDB tentage funeral is a meaningful and practical way to honour your loved one in Singapore, allowing family, friends, and the community to come together for a dignified farewell.

By understanding the necessary steps—from obtaining permits to coordinating tentage and rituals—families can ensure that their loved one’s final journey is handled with respect and care.

Plan A Respectable Funeral In Singapore With A Funeral Director

At Simplicity Casket, we offer a wide range of affordable funeral services and funeral packages for families to ensure they give their loved one a heartfelt and dignified farewell. 

Our funeral directors have the experience to help you choose the right casket from our wide range of selections for an affordable, respectable and dignified burial.

In addition, we can help prepare, arrange and conduct funeral wakes and handle every aspect of the funeral as well – from tentage and embalming to hearse and transportation as well as parlour hall bookings. 

Do not hesitate to get in touch with us or call us at +65 6456 7423. We are open 7 days a week and 24 hours a day.