Applying for Government Quarters
Government-owned residential quarters are allocated to civil servants based on grade and posting location. This guide explains who is entitled to rent-free quarters, what happens when a quarter is unavailable, the rules for officers posted away from their home area, and the obligations of occupants including notice requirements and inspection.
Understand the Allocation System
Government quarters are allocated and managed by the Central Office of Residential Accommodation (CORA) within the Directorate of Works. Quarters are classified by category corresponding to officer grade. Allocation is based on availability, grade entitlement, and posting location. You must apply formally through CORA — approaching a quarter directly or making informal arrangements with current occupants is not permitted and may result in disciplinary action.
What is your grade and posting situation?
Occupant Obligations and Inspections
Government quarters must be maintained in good order by the occupant. You are responsible for minor day-to-day maintenance and must report significant defects to the Directorate of Works promptly. CORA conducts half-yearly inspections of all government quarters. If an inspection reveals damage beyond fair wear and tear, you may be required to meet the cost of repairs. Do not carry out structural modifications or sub-let any part of the quarter without written permission from CORA.
Vacating a Quarter — One Month Notice Required
When you are transferred, retire, resign, or no longer need the quarter, you must give CORA one month's written notice of your intention to vacate. Failure to vacate within one month of the end of your entitlement, or without proper notice, will result in a charge of 30% of your basic monthly salary as notional rent for each month or part month of unauthorised occupation. Ensure you return all keys to CORA and obtain a clearance certificate before leaving.
Unauthorised Occupancy Charges
If you continue to occupy a government quarter after your entitlement has ended — whether because you have been transferred, have retired, or have not given proper notice — a deduction of 30% of your basic salary will be made from your monthly pay for each month of continued occupation. This applies even if you are awaiting allocation of alternative accommodation. In cases of persistent unauthorised occupation, the matter may be referred for formal eviction proceedings.