Hong Kong is gearing up to crack down on unregistered or poor-quality subdivided flats starting in 2028, after a two-year grace period. Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin revealed the timeline to address the city’s substandard living spaces following the policy address outlining plans to phase out tiny, windowless, and toilet-less homes.
The legislative process will begin in 2025, followed by a registration period lasting 12 to 18 months. Registered landlords will have one to two years to make necessary changes to their properties, during which they can still rent out their units. Those meeting the proposed requirements will be designated as “basic housing units.”
According to the minister, enforcement action against non-compliant landlords could begin in 2028, post the legislation, signaling a significant shift in housing regulations.
**Summary:**
Hong Kong is set to take action against landlords of substandard subdivided flats by 2028, following a two-year grace period. Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin outlined plans to phase out inadequate living spaces, with registered landlords given time to make necessary upgrades. The city aims to re-designate compliant units as “basic housing” to improve living conditions for residents.