HK launches consultation on basic housing unit proposed regulatory regime

It also plans to set up a registration system for existing SDUs.

The government has launched a two-month consultation on the proposed regulatory regime for Basic Housing Units (BHUs).

A spokesperson from the Housing Bureau (HB) explained that the current government has introduced measures to increase public housing supply and address the issue of substandard subdivided units (SDUs).

In the 2024 Policy Address, the chief executive announced plans to introduce legislation that will regulate the renting of SDUs in residential buildings.

Under the new regime, SDUs meeting specific standards will be reclassified as BHUs. The proposed BHU regulatory framework is seen as a critical step in eliminating substandard SDUs, offering tenants safer and more reasonable living conditions.

The government added that landlords renting substandard units will face criminal liability, whilst tenants will not be held accountable.

The government also plans to set up a registration system for existing SDUs, allowing landlords a grace period to make necessary improvements and apply for BHU recognition. New SDUs will only be permitted for rental once they have been recognized as compliant with the required standards.