Future Exemptions of Minor Works: Linn’s Statement on Housing Structures
Development minister Bernadette Linn recently made a groundbreaking statement regarding the future of Hong Kong’s housing landscape. Linn revealed that legal amendments to the Buildings Ordinance could potentially exempt a significant portion of the 36,000 illegal housing structures currently facing removal orders. This move could revolutionize the way authorities deal with unauthorized constructions in the city.
Proposal for Exemptions
Linn indicated that if the proposed legal changes are approved, at least a third of the illegal housing structures could be exempted from removal orders. The plan is to allow certain unauthorised minor works to remain if they have been inspected and deemed safe by approved professionals. This shift in policy would enable officials to focus their enforcement efforts on more serious violations, streamlining the process and ensuring greater efficiency.
Grace Period and Inspection
As part of the proposal, homeowners would be granted a grace period of three years after the new laws are passed to complete the necessary inspections. Linn mentioned that the checking fee by authorised experts is estimated to cost several thousand dollars on average. The Buildings Department is currently conducting an analysis to determine the extent of minor illegal structures that could potentially be exempted under the new regulations.
Inheritance of Unauthorized Works
One key point highlighted by Linn is that under the proposed amendments, individuals who inherit unauthorized works from previous owners could still face prosecution if they fail to remove them within a specified timeframe. This underscores the importance of due diligence for prospective homebuyers, urging them to exercise caution and thoroughly assess any potential legal risks before making a purchase.
Public Consultation and Legislative Process
The proposed legal amendments are set to undergo a two-month public consultation later this month, paving the way for potential changes to be tabled in the legislature by the first half of 2026. This marks a crucial step in shaping the future regulatory framework surrounding minor works in Hong Kong.
With these proposed exemptions and stricter penalties for serious violations, the housing landscape in Hong Kong could undergo a significant transformation in the coming years. As stakeholders await the outcome of the public consultation and legislative process, the implications of these potential changes are sure to reverberate throughout the city.
