Renovating public housing is not as free as private property. Before carrying out any works, residents must comply with regulations set by the Housing Department, including application procedures, construction restrictions, and scope of facility alterations.

Unauthorized works or illegal renovations may result in a restoration order at minimum, or in serious cases may affect the tenancy and even lead to repossession of the unit.

To avoid violations, this article will fully explain the application process for public housing renovations, common restrictions, renovation budget, as well as penalties and recommendations to note.

Public Housing Renovation Application Process

1. Choose renovation method: contractor or DIY

Residents may either hire a registered contractor or carry out renovations themselves. Regardless of method, they must apply to and receive approval from the Housing Department.

2. Submit application form

Before renovation, residents must fill out the “Renovation/Alteration Application Form” and submit it in person to the estate office. The form must list project details, materials used, estimated duration, and worker information.

3. Housing Department approval and permit

The Housing Department will review the application and decide based on the nature of the works. Once approved, residents will receive a permit, which must be posted outside the unit door, and workers must wear ID badges during construction.

4. Renovation and inspections

During renovation, the Housing Department has the right to conduct surprise inspections to ensure compliance. If violations are found, a restoration notice may be issued immediately.

Common Restrictions on Public Housing Renovations

1. Categories of facility alterations

The Housing Department divides in-unit facilities into three categories, with residents required to follow the rules accordingly:

Category A (not alterable): structural walls, fire doors, main doors, partition walls, and soundproof windows. For safety and structural reasons, these cannot be changed.
Category B (application required): kitchen stoves, wall tiles, bathtubs, security gates, etc. Approval is required before alterations.
Category C (free to alter): painting, floor tiles, faucets, furniture, etc. Residents may alter these without application.

2. Prohibited works

Prohibited works include: removing load-bearing walls, altering unit layout, sealing windows, or drilling into walls. Once discovered, residents will be ordered to restore and may face penalty points or termination of the tenancy.

3. Renovation time restrictions

Renovation works may only be carried out during specified hours:

Noisy works: 7am to 7pm
General works: 7am to 11pm
No works allowed on Sundays or public holidays

Violations may incur fines of up to HK$10,000.

Renovation Deadlines and Anti-Abuse Rules

1. New tenants

Newly allocated tenants are granted a 14-day rent-free period for renovation. Works should be completed within 60 days; otherwise, an extension must be applied for and rent may be charged.

2. Transfer tenants

If residents retain their original unit while moving into a new one, the old unit must be returned within 60 days. Otherwise, triple rent will be charged and tenancy arrangements may be affected.

3. Monitoring and penalties

If misuse of renovation or unauthorized works are found, the Housing Department may issue a restoration order. Failure to comply may result in eviction or tenancy termination.

Renovation Costs and Budget Control

Costs vary depending on the scope of works. General reference:

Basic renovation: approx. HK$30,000–70,000, including painting and replacing floor tiles
Moderate renovation: approx. HK$60,000–110,000, including kitchen/bathroom upgrades and partial layout changes
Full renovation: up to HK$180,000–250,000, including custom furniture and electrical/plumbing works

Residents are advised to control expenses within budget and avoid excessive renovation that could complicate future restoration responsibilities.

Subsidies and Loan Options

Although the Housing Department does not offer specific renovation subsidies, in certain cases such as unit refurbishment or social welfare assistance, residents may apply for support.

If funds are insufficient, private loans from financial institutions may be considered. However, residents should act within their means and avoid excessive debt due to renovation.

Conclusion

Public housing renovation must be handled with caution. Beyond budget planning, compliance with Housing Department rules is essential.

Residents are advised to understand the application process and restrictions before renovation to avoid violations.

Hiring professional contractors and planning carefully helps create an ideal home while avoiding legal disputes and restoration costs later.

FAQ

Q1: Can I renovate by myself?

A: Yes, but you must apply through proper procedures and ensure no restricted works are involved.

Q2: Do I need to apply to change sockets or install air-conditioning?

A: Yes. These are Category B alterations, requiring approval and registered technicians to perform the work.

Q3: What happens if I start renovation without applying?

A: The Housing Department has the right to order immediate suspension, issue a restoration notice, or terminate the tenancy.

Q4: Is inspection required after works are completed?

A: Not mandatory, but for larger projects it is recommended to notify the Housing Department for inspection to ensure compliance.