Property Management Services Authority Urges
Property Management Industry to Strengthen Safety Precautionary Measures for Extreme Weather and Rainy / Typhoon Season

As the rainy / typhoon season approaches, the Property Management Services Authority (PMSA) advises the property management (PM) industry to stay vigilant and implement safety precautionary measures for properties under their management by referring to and strictly following the latest circulars issued by the Buildings Department (BD) to safeguard public and building safety.

According to the Hong Kong Observatory’s forecast, approximately 4 to 7 tropical cyclones are expected to enter within 500 kilometres of Hong Kong this year. The BD recently issued the circular titled “Precautionary Measures for Public and Building Safety during Rainy and Typhoon Season,” calling for the cooperation of all licensed PM companies to focus on inspection of drainage system, external wall installation, and electrical and mechanical facilities before, during, and after adverse weather. The PMSA takes this opportunity to remind the industry to ensure that drainage pipes and manholes on roof, podium, and in basement are clear of obstruction to avoid serious flooding that could disrupt daily operation of the properties. For buildings undergoing repair and maintenance work, the industry should refer to the BD’s circular on “Safety of Bamboo Scaffolds for Building Maintenance and Repair Works” to ensure that scaffolding structures remain stable and secure under all weather condition and are regularly inspected by qualified persons.

Dr James WONG, Chairperson of the PMSA, said, “Extreme weather conditions pose challenges to the work of the PM industry. As ‘Property Invigilators,’ PM practitioners play a crucial role in flood and typhoon prevention. High-quality and professional PM services include not only daily maintenance and repair of property facilities but also cover preparedness for emergencies, demonstrated through the prevention of potential damage and the enhancement of response capabilities. I strongly urge PM companies and practitioners to be well-prepared and take precautionary measures. PM companies should strictly follow the BD’s guidelines and complete drainage clearance and stability check for external structures early before the rainy / typhoon season arrives, thereby ensuring the safety of the lives and properties of the public.”

To assist the PM industry in taking preventive measures and enhancing relevant knowledge and skills, the PMSA has already formulated Codes of Conduct and related Best Practice Guides including “Handling Emergencies,” “Handling Drainage Work,” “Tree Management Work,” “Slope Management Work,” “Handling Scaffolding Works,” “Handling Suspended Working Platform Works,” and “Handling Building Works” to provide comprehensive practical guidance for the industry. The industry should refer to the above Codes and Guides, inspecting property areas in advance, and strengthen site safety measures thus ensuring thorough preparedness for unexpected incidents and minimising potential risks to lives and property.

In addition, regarding the safety of property construction environment, the BD has also issued a circular on “Proper Erection of Scaffolds in Proximity to or over Streets for Ensuring Safety of Road Users” earlier. The PMSA reminds the industry to strictly comply with relevant requirement, maintain safe clearance between scaffolding and roadways to prevent collision between vehicles and building structures, comprehensively protecting the safety of road users, workers, and the public.

Ends/Friday, 15 May, 2026
Issued at HKT 17:00
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