Rampant rule-breaking in Hong Kong luxury estates, Post investigation finds

An investigation by the South China Morning Post has uncovered rampant land grabs in some of Hong Kong’s priciest residential properties. Some buildings were found to have been extended by encroaching into government land without authorisation, while others appeared to have suspected unauthorised additions. Such actions have been criticised not only because of structural safety, but also fairness – since additions and other changes can drive up the prices of properties. Penalties are unlikely for building law violators unless they fail to comply with removal orders. Critics also say wealthier homeowners often have the financial means to delay legal proceedings.