[Disassembling the Installation of an Independent Water Meter in a Simple Room]
The Subdivided Units Ordinance stipulates that subdivided units must have independent water and electricity meters. This article will focus on the installation of water meters in subdivided units, and a detailed sharing on the installation of independent electricity meters will follow. The original intention of the Subdivided Units Ordinance is to improve the living quality of residents in subdivided units and combat landlords or principal tenants overcharging for water. However, many landlords lack clear information regarding the installation of independent water meters in subdivided units. Design House HK hopes to share guidelines on installing independent water meters in subdivided units through this article, allowing landlords and principal tenants to prepare in advance.
Independent Water Meters Combat Overcharging for Water
Subdivided units (subdivided rooms) are a residential choice for many grassroots citizens, but there has been a long-standing controversy due to the lack of transparency in water bill charges by landlords. Many subdivided units cannot have their water meters read independently because they share a water supply, leading to unfair water bill distribution. To address this issue, the Water Supplies Department has launched a scheme for installing independent water meters in subdivided units. The goal is to encourage subdivided units with independent water supply systems to install independent water meters. The scheme aims to simplify the application procedures and waive water meter fees and water deposits, facilitating legal and transparent water management by landlords. At the same time, this initiative helps to resolve the problem of some landlords of unauthorized subdivided units overcharging for water, creating a fairer and more reasonable rental environment.
Eligibility and Procedures for Installing Water Meters in Subdivided Units
This scheme applies to subdivided units used for residential purposes, provided that the property is divided into two or more independent units, each with its own independent water supply system. The applicant must be the owner or legal manager of the property, responsible for all matters related to the installation of water meters in the subdivided unit. During the application process, the applicant must submit a completed WWO 1156 form, pledging to comply with all responsibilities and regulations of the Water Authority regarding water meter installation and reading. Upon approval, the applicant must engage a licensed plumber or registered plumbing worker to ensure that the water meter installation complies with statutory standards. After completion of the installation, the Water Supplies Department will conduct a meter inspection and issue approval documents after confirmation. Thereafter, the readings displayed on the independent water meters will serve as the basis for residents of the subdivided units to pay their bills, and water charges will be calculated according to the residential tariff schedule in the Waterworks Regulations.
Enhanced Enforcement of the Waterworks (Amendment) Ordinance in 2024
Given the frequent occurrence of overcharging for water, particularly in subdivided units, and to protect the rights of water users, the Waterworks (Amendment) Ordinance, which came into effect on April 19, 2024, significantly increased penalties for overcharging for water and the enforcement powers of the Water Supplies Department. The maximum penalty has been raised from the original $10,000 to $10,000 for the first offense, with repeat offenders facing a penalty of up to $25,000. Additionally, the ordinance introduced a new offense prohibiting the provision of false or misleading information, with offenders facing fines and imprisonment for six months. More importantly, the ordinance grants the Water Supplies Department the power to compel owners or managers to provide tenancy and water usage information, facilitating investigations into cases of overcharging for water. Furthermore, it explicitly stipulates that owners must pay according to the Water Supplies Department's water bill before recovering water charges from tenants and mandates that owners issue receipts within 7 days of collection, to protect tenants' right to know.
Increasing Transparency in Water Charges for Subdivided Unit Tenants
After the ordinance comes into effect, water management for subdivided unit landlords will be more transparent and compliant with regulations, reducing disputes. Those collecting water charges must retain copies of receipts for two years, providing documented evidence to protect tenants' rights from infringement. The Water Supplies Department and the Rating and Valuation Department will establish a cooperative mechanism to exchange information on suspected violations, working together to combat overcharging for water and illegal water usage. This will promote an overall improvement in the management standards of subdivided units while ensuring users' basic right to fair water use. The ordinance is not just a legal amendment but a significant step forward in improving the social living environment and maintaining market order.
Design House HK One-Stop Subdivided Unit Certification and Renovation Services
Facing increasingly stringent water meter installation regulations and management ordinances, subdivided unit landlords need professional assistance to ensure compliance and enhance property value. Design House HK provides professional one-stop subdivided unit certification and renovation services, from compliance certification during the design phase, independent water meter system planning, to construction and installation, and subsequent maintenance management. All work is carried out by government-recognized licensed Grade 1 plumbers, ensuring that every aspect complies with the latest regulatory standards and alleviating landlords' concerns. Whether it's guidance on application procedures or technical support for water meter installation, Design House HK can provide you with the best solutions, offering a one-stop service for all complex procedures. Feel free to contact us anytime for professional consultation!
