Ombudsman probes dealing with of water seepage cases by Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints (with pictures)
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The following is provided on behalf of the Office of The Ombudsman:
The Ombudsman, Mr Jack Chan, today (October 27) revealed the launch of a complete examination into the Joint Office for Investigation of Water Seepage Complaints (JO)’s handling of water seepage cases.
The reasons for water seepage are intricate. It might arise from faulty structure structures or setups, or from an absence of appropriate upkeep. If the seepage postures an annoyance, public health risk or a prospective threat to constructing security, the Government might think about exercising its statutory powers to step in. To improve effectiveness in managing reports of water seepage, the Government has actually developed the JO to supply the general public with a one-stop service. The goal is to accelerate examinations for recognizing the source of seepage better, and enhance the success rate in dealing with seepage issues.
The Office kept in mind from grievance dealing with that unauthorised structure works (UBWs) on a flat roofing system of an upper flat have actually triggered water seepage in the lower flat. The JO did not perform an examination into the seepage issue in a prompt way. The Buildings Department (BD) released an elimination order over a year back, the UBWs have yet to be destroyed, resulting in the continued seepage issue.
Mr Chan stated, “It is Hong Kong people’s common hope that they should be able to enjoy a well-maintained and comfortable living environment, but water seepage problems undoubtedly cause much inconvenience and distress to affected residents. According to government statistics, in 2022, 2023 and 2024 the number of complaints about water seepage in buildings received by the JO was 39 555, 45 033 and 47 299 respectively. Also, complaints from the public regarding unresolved seepage problems are common. In addition, there is information indicating that the BD did not promptly enforce compliance with removal orders issued against UBWs, resulting in persistent seepage problems potentially caused by the UBWs. In this light, I have decided to launch a full investigation into the JO’s handling of water seepage cases, including the BD’s procedures for handling UBWs that may lead to water seepage, to identify areas for improvement and to put forward appropriate recommendations. We are also very concerned about the overall operation of the JO and will launch a series of reviews to probe deeply into the JO’s investigation operation process and effectiveness, including the JO’s monitoring of its consultants.”
The Ombudsman invites views from members of the general public on this subject. Composed submissions must reach the Office by November 27, 2025:
Address: 30/F, China Merchants Tower, Shun Tak Centre, 168-200 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
Fax: 2882 8149
Email: cid-jo@ombudsman.hk