Tsuen Wan landlord fined HK$70,000 for ignoring demolition order
A Hong Kong landlord was fined HK$70,000 for failing to comply with a demolition order over an unauthorised 132 sqm structure on a commercial-residential building in Tsuen Wan. The Buildings Department warned that owners must obey orders promptly to ensure public safety, noting that violations can l
The Hong Kong Buildings Department announced on 5 November that a landlord in Tsuen Wan has been fined HK$70,000 for failing to comply with a demolition order. The case involves an unauthorised structure measuring approximately 132 square metres on the podium and light well of a commercial-residential building at 1 Heung Wo Street, Tsuen Wan.
The structure was built without prior approval or consent from the Buildings Department. The department issued a demolition order under section 24(1) of the Buildings Ordinance, but the owner did not comply, leading to prosecution.
A Buildings Department spokesperson said: 'Unauthorised structures can lead to serious consequences. Owners must comply with demolition orders as soon as possible. For owners who fail to comply, the Buildings Department will continue to strictly enforce the law, including prosecution, to protect building and public safety.'
Under the Buildings Ordinance, failing to comply with a demolition order without a reasonable excuse is a serious offence. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty is a fine of HK$200,000 and imprisonment for one year, plus an additional fine of up to HK$20,000 for each day the offence continues.
