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On enforcement action, Dr Choi pointed out that the Buildings Department would continue its battle against dangerous buildings and illegal structures.
In 1995, the Department received some 2,000 public complaints on dangerous buildings and 9,000 on unauthorised building works, an increase of 38 per cent and 18 per cent respectively compared with 1994. The figures show that the community is becoming more aware of the problems.
"In the coming year, apart from regular enforcement actions, we will also identify more than 100 buildings for carrying out large-scale clearance operations.
"To tie in with the introduction of new legislation, a special team will be set up in the middle of the year to deal with the means of escape and fire safety installations in commercial buildings," Dr Choi said.
Regarding the maintenance of buildings, Dr Choi stressed that all buildings must be regularly maintained and repaired, otherwise their lifespan will be much shortened.
He said that the public can assist in identifying the most easily observable defects in buildings. These are spalled concrete with stains, structural cracks, bulging rendering, or loosen surface tiles.
"If members of the public detect these problems, they should immediately make a report to the Buildings Department for follow-up actions. Our two 24-hour complaint and enquiry hotlines are 2626 1234 and 2626 1313.
"I wish to stress that building owners have the obligation to ensure building safety and to employ professionals to carry out maintenance and repair works, so as to protect themselves, as well as the public safety" Dr Choi said.
End
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