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

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 independent committee investigating the blaze earlier uncovered evidence pointing to suspected bid-rigging and connected bidding companies, among other concerns.

Speaking on a radio programme on Saturday, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen said the proposed mechanism could better handle disputes among property owners and foster a more constructive environment for building management.