The number of aged buildings in Hong Kong is increasing over the years. Most buildings in Hong Kong are constructed of reinforced concrete with a design life of 50 years in general. With proper use and maintenance, the life of a building can be extended. Conversely, a building falling into disrepair can cause danger to its occupants or the general public. It is the building owners' responsibility to act promptly to maintain and repair the buildings.
Roles of the Buildings Department
- Enforces the Buildings Ordinance and provides professional services to the owners and occupants of private buildings in Hong Kong.
- Keeps copies of building plans/records and occupation permits for all private buildings (except for the pre-war buildings and exempted houses in the New Territories) for inspection by the public at the Building Information Centre.
- Provides loans to individual owners of private buildings to carry out maintenance and repair works voluntarily or in compliance with statutory orders.
- Handles reports from members of the public and advises building owners and property management staff on actions required to ensure building safety and health.
See also: Owners' Responsibility
Enforcement Action
The Buildings Department acts on reports on defective or dangerous buildings, and take follow-up actions, for example issuing repair/investigation orders: