An owner was fined $10,500 for failing to comply with a statutory notice under the Mandatory Building Inspection Scheme issued under the Buildings Ordinance (Cap. 123) at Tuen Mun Magistrates' Courts on October 28 this year.

     The composite building concerned, which is 37 years old, is a 14-storey building located in Yuen Long. A statutory notice was issued requiring the owner of a flat to appoint a registered inspector to carry out a prescribed inspection and, if necessary, prescribed repair in respect of the balcony of the premises, under section 30B(5) of the Buildings Ordinance.

     The Buildings Department later instigated prosecution against the owner who failed to comply with the statutory notice upon the expiry date. The owner pleaded guilty and was fined $10,500 on October 28.

     Failure to comply with a statutory notice without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the Buildings Ordinance. The maximum penalty upon conviction is one year's imprisonment and a fine at level 5, as well as a further fine of $5,000 for each day that the offence continues.

Ends/Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Issued at HKT 15:31

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