Editorial | Vigilance key as there is no quick fix to issue of subdivided flats in Hong Kong
Stricter enforcement of existing rules is a good place to start while longer-term efforts are needed to rid Hong Kong Kong of these shameful dwellings
As the government seeks to outlaw substandard residential units, it is easy to forget that these so-called subdivided flats are somehow already subject to rental control under the law.
But slack enforcement and lenient punishment for violations means abuses and irregularities with these shameful dwellings are still rampant across Hong Kong.
The situation does not bode well for the ongoing attempt to regulate living standards.
To be fair, the incumbent and previous administrations are to be commended for their courage in taking on the challenge.
But the enforcement of the amended Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance still leaves much to be desired.
So far the authorities have only received notice of 52,756 subdivided tenancy agreements, despite an estimate that there are 108,200 such units across the city.
Under the amended law in 2022, landlords of subdivided flats must sign a two-year tenancy contract, during which they cannot end the agreement or increase the rent.