New mechanism to strengthen oversight of renovations after Tai Po fire: minister

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Hong Kong’s home affairs minister says a proposed three-tier dispute-resolution mechanism could improve oversight of major renovation projects and protect homeowners from unscrupulous contractors. The issue gained urgency after a deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po during a HK$330 million renovation, which killed 168 people and displaced nearly 5,000 residents.

A three-tier dispute resolution mechanism could help Hong Kong homeowners strengthen oversight of major renovation projects and prevent exploitation by “unscrupulous traders”, according to the home affairs minister. The city’s building management challenges came under the spotlight after the deadly blaze at Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court in November 2025. The estate was undergoing a HK$330 million renovation when the fire broke out, killing 168 people and displacing nearly 5,000 residents. An...