How does BD verify significant new UBW?

The following measures are adopted to monitor and verify new UBW :

1. Aerial photos are used to identify new UBW on rooftops.

2. Record photos of buildings are kept for verifying the status of new UBW.

3. Results of enquiries and circumstantial evidence.

If I wish to erect light-weight canopy for sun-shading or for protection against falling objects, do I need consent and approval from the BD?

Owners intending to construct new building or make alterations and additions to existing buildings are required by Buildings Ordinance to appoint an authorized person to coordinate and supervise the works and also if so required, a registered structural engineer. The authorized person appointed will follow up the application for approval and consent from BD.

If I wish to erect storage cabinets on the roof of my property, do I need approval and consent from the BD? 

Prior approval and consent from the BD are required for erecting prefabricated structures including mobile houses and man-size storage cabinets on the main roof, podium roof or open yard of a building. It is because large storage cabinets occupying space will likely contravene the floor area limitation and other building regulations.

However, storage cabinets at such locations are generally not subject to immediate enforcement action when:-

• the cabinet does not exceed a height of 1.5 metres nor the parapet wall, 

• the cabinet does not affect the structure of the building,

• the fire escape route is not obstructed, and 

• the drainage system is not affected