How the HK$17,000 inspection fee works
- Who it applies to: If a preliminary investigation indicates the seepage is likely caused by an upper flat, the Joint Office issues an “advisory repair notice”, requiring the upper-unit owner to inspect and complete repairs within 28 calendar days.
- When the fee is charged: If seepage continues after the deadline and the owner has not fulfilled that responsibility, the Joint Office proceeds with Stage II and Stage III investigations in parallel and, based on the findings, recovers an inspection fee of not less than HK$17,000.
- Not a fine: The amount recovers the cost of further professional investigation and confirmatory testing. It is not a fixed penalty. Completing repairs before the deadline avoids this fee.
How the new procedure differs from the old one
- Faster notice: Infrared thermography plus an electronic moisture meter allows an advisory repair notice in about 14 working days after a report — roughly 57 working days earlier than under the previous approach.
- How to seek help: Affected owners may report to the Joint Office or submit a case through the 1823 online form.