The Independent Checking Unit (ICU) exercises statutory building control to properties developed by the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) that have been sold or divested, in accordance with the Buildings Ordinance (BO) and the policies and guidelines of the Building Authority (BA). These properties include the Home Ownership Scheme, the Tenant Purchase Scheme, other properties with sold flats and the properties in housing estates with divested retail and car-parking facilities. The ICU also exercises administrative building control to the HA’s new development works and existing buildings in line with the BO and the BA’s policies and guidelines.
Our services for existing buildings include reducing risks and nuisances caused by unauthorised building works; promoting the importance of proper repairs and maintenance of old buildings and drainage including implementation of the mandatory building and window inspection schemes; checking and approving alteration and addition works; processing submissions under the simplified requirements of the minor works control system, and advising on the suitability of premises for the issue of licences for specified commercial uses.
For new development works, the ICU checks and approves building plans, carries out audit checks on construction works and site safety, and issues occupation permits upon completion of new buildings under the administrative arrangement with the Housing Department.