'Renovation-woes fix lies in approved operators' list'

A lawmaker has proposed that pre-approved lists of contractors and consultants could be beneficial for building renovation projects. Andrew Lam, the chairman of the Legislative Council's development panel, made these remarks while discussing the Development Bureau's plans to create such lists, with the first set due by the end of 2026.

Lam argued that the lists could improve building maintenance standards and deter illegal practices such as bid-rigging. He emphasized that the primary goal of the lists is to provide better systems for small property owners and to ensure that building management work meets acceptable quality standards. Lam also expressed hope that the initiative could minimize risks associated with future building management and maintenance projects, given the numerous construction plans already in the works under the city's Five-Year plan.

While he welcomed the move, Lam stressed that the lists' effectiveness would depend on proper enforcement and public awareness. He noted that random inspections often reveal negligence in fire-hazard-prevention installations, and called for stronger penalties to discourage fire-safety violations and enhance overall safety outcomes.