A dedicated webpage was launched on the website of the Water Supplies Department (WSD) today (May 21) to provide useful information about the avoidance of water overcharge situations for landlords and tenants of sub-divided units.
In light of the recent enactment of the Waterworks (Waterworks Regulations) (Amendment) Ordinance 2021, the amended Regulation 47 of the Waterworks Regulations (WWR) only allows a registered consumer of the WSD (usually the landlords) to recover from the occupants of the premises (usually the tenants) the water charge paid to the WSD. The amendment, which has taken effect, strengthens the protection of tenants of sub-divided units from being overcharged for water. If the amount recovered by the landlord exceeds the water charge paid to the WSD, the landlord shall be guilty of an offence. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of HK$10,000.
To avoid any dispute arising from the recovery of a water charge, landlords of sub-divided units should discuss and agree with their tenants a suitable and acceptable apportionment. Landlords or tenants may also consider applying to the WSD for the installation of separate water meters for sub-divided units to enable tenants to pay water charges based on their water consumption.
The WSD has all along been encouraging the public to report unscrupulous landlords for overcharging tenants of sub-divided units for water. A relevant option has been available under its enquiry hotline on 2824 5000. After calling the hotline, the public can choose a language and then press "7" to select the option of "Report Water Overcharge of Sub‑divided Units" for reporting to staff direct.
Meanwhile, the WSD will continue to conduct proactive patrols in suspected sub-divided units to investigate any situation of overcharging for the use of water. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence.
In addition to disseminating the information on website, the WSD will step up the publicity on combating water overcharges to tenants of sub-divided units through a series of activities, including meeting with relevant groups and estate agency organisations, as well as distributing leaflets and posters to tenants.
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