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Home Affairs Minister Proposes Three-Tier Dispute Resolution for Hong Kong Renovations

Following the deadly fire at Tai Po's Wang Fuk Court in November 2025, the Home Affairs Minister stated that a proposed three-tier dispute resolution mechanism aims to improve oversight of major renovation projects and prevent exploitation by traders.

Conceptual illustration of a three-tiered, interlocking structure representing a dispute resolution mechanism.
AI-generated illustration

According to the South China Morning Post, the Home Affairs Minister indicated that a three-tier dispute resolution mechanism could assist Hong Kong homeowners in enhancing their supervision of significant renovation undertakings and deter exploitation by what has been termed "unscrupulous traders."

The issues surrounding building management in the city gained increased attention subsequent to the fatal fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po in November 2025. At the time of the fire, the property was undergoing a renovation valued at HK$330 million, which resulted in 168 fatalities and the displacement of close to 5,000 residents.

An independent committee that investigated the blaze previously uncovered evidence suggesting issues such as suspected bid-rigging and the involvement of connected bidding companies, among other matters.

Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen mentioned during a radio program on Saturday that the suggested mechanism has the potential to manage disagreements among property owners more effectively and cultivate a more constructive atmosphere for building management.

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