Hong Kong's New Housing Law: 4 Tenant Rights Tips

The government has implemented the "Simple Housing Ordinance," which will officially take effect in March 2026, establishing minimum living standards (such as area, ventilation, and independent toilets) for all subdivided units (subdivided flats) in Hong Kong. While the intention of this policy is good, many tenants are worried: "The wool comes from the sheep's back—will the landlord's renovation costs become a reason to raise my rent?" During the transition period, tenants should not just passively wait but should proactively understand the following 4 key impacts and protect their rights.

1. Will the supply of compliant units decrease? Should you plan ahead?

Some units that are "inherently deficient" (e.g., too small in area, unable to add windows) will be phased out. If landlords choose not to renovate and exit the market, the supply of affordable units will indeed decrease in the short term.

Tenant tips:

• Don't wait until the last minute: If the unit you currently live in is clearly non-compliant (e.g., a windowless black toilet), it is recommended to use the registration period starting in March 2026 to search for a new home early.
• Increased competition: It is expected that rents for compliant units will strengthen due to rising demand, so tenants need to budget more or adjust their living area.

2. Is there upward pressure on rents? Will landlords take the opportunity to significantly raise rents?

Tenant tips:

• Legal defense: Regardless of the renovation costs, the current Part IVA of the Landlord and Tenant (Consolidation) Ordinance remains effective. When renewing the lease, the rent increase cap is 10%.
• Refuse illegal charges: Landlords must not invent excuses (such as certification fees, renovation sharing fees) to charge tenants.

3. Forced relocation?

Make use of the "36-month grace period" situation: Tenants fear most that landlords will suddenly ask them to move out within a month using the excuse "I need to renovate."

Tenant tips:

• Understand the timeline: After registration in March 2026, registered landlords enjoy a grace period of up to 36 months (3 years).
• Negotiation leverage: Unless the unit poses an immediate danger, landlords have enough time to arrange. If you are within the "fixed-term" period, the landlord has no right to forcibly evict you. You can suggest that the landlord carry out major renovations during the gap when the lease expires.

4. Tenant practical checklist: What can you do now?

Before the new system is fully implemented, please immediately carry out the following checks:

• 🔍 Assess living risks: Measure your current unit with a ruler. If the floor area is less than 8 square meters (about 86 square feet), the unit is "high-risk," so apply for transitional housing as soon as possible.
• 🔍 Confirm lease status: Check if the lease has been stamped? This document is your most important proof when facing forced eviction or illegal rent increases from the landlord in the future.
• 🔍 Proactively communicate: Ask the landlord: "Will you apply for registration in March 2026?" The landlord's reaction can let you know whether they intend to stay long-term or plan to exit the market.

The "Simple Housing Ordinance" is intended to improve living quality, not to leave tenants homeless. Faced with market uncertainty, "information" and "a compliant lease" are your strongest shields.