Minister says subdividing flats was ‘market decision’ years ago, but low-income residents should now have homes that meet basic conditions.

Once registered, landlords will benefit from a 36-month grace period between March 2027 and February 2030.

As city moves to legislate minimum standards, industry players also worry that more operators will exit market due to stiffer penalties.

Move is a step in the right direction towards eradicating substandard housing that has been a blot on the Hong Kong landscape for far too long.

Minister says subdividing flats was ‘market decision’ years ago, but low-income residents should now have homes that meet basic conditions.