Renovation Hours: Know the Rules

Jun 16

3 minutes

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Renovation Hours: Know the Rules post illustrative image Noise from renovation works often raises concerns among neighbors. Whether you are a homeowner or a tenant, it is important to understand the relevant regulations and common practices regarding renovation hours to avoid disturbing others or breaking the law. Below, we have compiled common questions about residential renovation hours to help you renovate with peace of mind.

How late can renovation go? Why is there drilling sound at 10pm?

According to the Noise Control Ordinance (Chapter 400), the legal time for residential renovation is from 7am to 7pm from Monday to Saturday (minor works can extend until 11pm). Renovation is prohibited on Sundays and public holidays.

Major works include wall drilling, wall demolition, and floor breaking
Minor works include the use of portable power tools (such as drilling walls)
Unless a Construction Noise Permit approved by the Environmental Protection Department is obtained, renovation outside the specified hours is not allowed

Saturday is a legal time, why would there be complaints?

Private estates may have additional regulations, need to inquire with the management office or owners' corporation
For example, some estates prohibit renovations on Saturdays, or only allow specific time slots

What are the consequences of violating decoration time regulations?

If construction is carried out outside the legal hours without a permit, the maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of HK$10,000, and repeat offenders may face increased fines. Moreover, the consequences in terms of property management cannot be overlooked: in estates with management companies, violating decoration time is a breach of rules, and the management office can demand an immediate halt to work, and may impose fines on the owner or take legal action according to the deed of mutual covenant.

I am a tenant, can I decorate the unit on my own?

Generally, no. Tenants are not allowed to carry out major decorations without the written consent of the landlord. Most leases stipulate that if a tenant needs to change the interior decoration or structure, they must first obtain the landlord's consent, and usually require the unit to be restored to its original condition upon moving out. If a tenant makes alterations without consent, the landlord may claim compensation for damages.

In practice, tenants can discuss with the landlord to make minor improvements (such as painting, installing shelves, etc.), and should clearly agree on the handling method upon moving out (restore the original condition or keep the changes). Especially in subdivided flats and other shared rental situations, structural changes are often not feasible, and tenants cannot arbitrarily change walls or add partitions to avoid building safety and legal issues. If a tenant violates the lease, the landlord has the right to forfeit the deposit and, if necessary, resolve the issue through legal channels.