The department provides services for owners and occupants of both existing and new private buildings through enforcement of the Buildings Ordinance.
As regards existing buildings, our services include reducing risks and nuisances caused by unauthorised building works and advertisement signboards; promoting the importance of proper repairs and maintenance of old buildings, drainage and slopes; considering and approving alteration and addition works; processing submissions under the simplified requirements and the household minor works validation scheme of the minor works control system; improving fire safety measures in buildings and advising on the suitability of premises for the issue of licences for specified commercial uses.
As regards new buildings, the department scrutinises and approves building plans, carries out audit checks on construction works and site safety and issues occupation permits upon completion of new buildings.