Since the launch of the “Report Public Housing Abuse Award Scheme” in January, a total of 3,500 reports of tenancy abuse have been received, with three cases resulting in rewards, said Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin.
Speaking on a radio program Sunday, Ho noted that among the reports, 700 cases contained “good evidence” warranting further investigation into the misuse of public housing resources.
It was revealed that the three rewarded cases involved tenants offering meridian massage and nail care services, with one unit even converted into a nail salon complete with customer design displays.
Ho stressed that the Housing Authority evaluates reports using various forms of evidence, including environmental indicators.
For cases involving special circumstances, Ho noted that the department would collaborate with social workers to provide support and may delay the reclamation of units when necessary.
Regarding the waiting time for public rental housing, which increased from 5.3 to 5.4 years as of June, Ho stated that approximately 4,800 units will be allocated this quarter—including 2,900 reclaimed units and 1,900 simplified housing units.
As most of the recovered units are in urban districts, Ho explained that they were allocated to applicants with longer waiting times, which contributed to the overall increase in the average waiting period.
On the public and private housing split, currently set at a ratio of 70:30, Ho confirmed that the proportion will be maintained for the time being. She added that the market requires time to adjust following last year’s increase in private housing supply.
Additionally, Ho emphasized the need for flexibility in housing policy to respond to changing social conditions.
