28 subdivided unit landlords face fines for tenancy breaches

They admitted to failing to file tenancy notices and charging tenants unlawful payments.

Twenty-eight subdivided unit (SDU) landlords have been fined a total of $75,200 for breaching the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance, the Rating and Valuation Department (RVD) said.

The landlords, convicted at the Eastern Magistrates’ Courts on 5 and 12 September, admitted to failing to file tenancy notices and charging tenants unlawful payments, including rent above the legal cap for second-term tenancies. Fines ranged from $800 to $7,200.

The prosecutions followed RVD investigations into non-compliance with the Ordinance. Since the legislation took effect, the department has prosecuted 1,222 cases, securing convictions in all 859 cases concluded in court, involving 747 landlords and fines totaling over $2.28m. Another 363 cases are pending.

An RVD spokesman reminded landlords of their obligations, stressing that harassment of tenants or unlawful rent demands are prohibited, and that tenants are entitled to a four-year security of tenure (two consecutive two-year terms).

He added that the department will continue strict enforcement, combining case investigations, proactive tenancy checks, and education campaigns.

Failure to comply with RVD information requests may result in fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for three months.

The spokesman urged the public to report suspected breaches via the RVD hotline (2150 8303), email, fax, post, or in person. A reporting form is also available on the department’s website.

The RVD is further reminding landlords and tenants of their rights and responsibilities as first-term tenancies expire, including procedures for second-term tenancy applications.