Key facts
- Hong Kong plans to legislate minimum standards for subdivided flats, requiring at least 8 sq meters, windows, and a private toilet.
- The government aims to phase out substandard housing, which affects an estimated 110,000 households.
- Housing advocates warn the policy could lead to displacement of vulnerable residents and increased rents.
- Some landlords are reportedly using the policy announcement to evict tenants before legislation is finalized.
- The government is consulting on the new housing standards from December to February, with legislation expected in 2025.
Hong Kong's government is introducing legislation to improve living standards in subdivided flats, rebranding them as "Basic Housing Units." The proposed standards include a minimum floor area of eight square meters, provision of windows, and an individual toilet. This policy aims to address the city's notorious subdivided housing crisis, which affects an estimated 110,000 households.
However, housing advocates and some lawmakers express concern that the policy could inadvertently harm the city's most vulnerable residents. The reduction in supply of low-cost housing options and the potential for increased rents are significant worries. Furthermore, the gap between the policy's announcement and its final legislation has created a regulatory vacuum, with some landlords reportedly using the impending changes to evict tenants prematurely. This has led to fears of increased homelessness, as affordable alternatives are scarce and public housing waiting lists are long.
The government plans a consultation period from December to February, with legislation targeted for 2025. While existing tenant protections under the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance are cited, concerns remain about their effectiveness against determined landlords. Proposals include a dedicated team to handle tenant complaints and leveraging social workers to assist displaced individuals.