Govt mulls easing restrictions on windows, grace periods for Basic Housing Units

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin stated on Tuesday that the government is considering relaxing restrictions on windows and grace periods for Basic Housing Units (BHUs) under the proposed regulatory regime.

Her comments followed the conclusion of a two-month public consultation yesterday, during which the government received nearly 2,200 submissions, with a focus on initial rent caps, per capita area, and grace periods. 

Speaking on a radio program, the housing chief emphasized that the feedback received aligns largely with the proposed framework while acknowledging the need to address concerns about rising rents and the relocation of subdivided flat tenants.

Ho also hinted at potential flexibility for prohibiting windows from facing light wells, suggesting exemptions for units facing larger air shafts with better air quality and garbage disposal access, but emphasized that further deliberation is needed.

Meanwhile, Ho ruled out the possibility of introducing an initial rent cap for basic housing units, explaining that such a measure could discourage landlords of subdivided flats from revamping the unit.

She assured that the displacement of subdivided flat residents would be prevented, as 90 percent of light public housing is expected to be completed by 2027, alongside an expanded supply of transitional housing and public housing.

Additionally, Ho stated that the authorities are considering various timelines before making a final decision on whether to extend the grace period from one or two years to three years.