Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, making property building and renovation a key part of the city’s infrastructure. If you are planning to build or renovate a property in Hong Kong, it is important to understand the regulations and procedures involved. In this article, we will answer some key questions related to property building and renovation in Hong Kong.
Planning Permission in Hong Kong
It is necessary to apply for planning permission in Hong Kong to build or renovate a property. The following is the procedure to obtain planning permission in Hong Kong:
- Submit an application to the Buildings Department
- Wait for the application to be processed
- If the application is approved, obtain the necessary permits from the Buildings Department
- Begin the construction or renovation work
Rules on Building Status, Conservation Areas and Preservation Orders in Hong Kong?
Listed building status, conservation areas, and preservation orders are governed by the Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO) and the Development Bureau in Hong Kong. If your property falls under any of these categories, you will need to obtain permission from the relevant authorities before carrying out any renovation work.
How can you find reliable, trustworthy builders in Hong Kong? Give full contact details of any professional organisation good builders should belong to.
To find reliable and trustworthy builders in Hong Kong, you can consider the following options:
- Check with the Hong Kong Construction Association (HKCA)
- Look for builders who are members of the Hong Kong Institute of Construction Managers (HKICM)
- Check for certifications from the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA)
- Look for builders who have been recognized with a Quality Building Award
Building Permits or Licences in Hong Kong?
The following permits or licences are necessary when building or renovating property in Hong Kong:
- Building plan approval from the Buildings Department
- Occupation permit from the Buildings Department
- Relevant permits from the Water Supplies Department and the Drainage Services Department for plumbing and drainage work
- Electrical installation permit from the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department for electrical work
Local architects in Hong Kong? Give full contact details of any relevant architect professional body in Hong Kong.
To find a local architect in Hong Kong, you can consider the following options:
- Check with the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA)
- Look for architects who are members of the Hong Kong Institute of Planners (HKIP)
- Check for certifications from the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA)
- Look for architects who have been recognized with a Quality Building Award
Common Pitfalls in Hong Kong?
When buying land in Hong Kong, it is important to be aware of the following common pitfalls:
- Check the zoning of the land to ensure it can be used for the purpose you have in mind
- Ensure that the land is free of any encumbrances, such as mortgages or liens
- Check for any restrictions on the land, such as conservation or heritage restrictions
- Ensure that the boundaries of the land are clearly defined and that there are no disputes over them.