In May 2026, Hong Kong’s Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) arrested 7 individuals involved in a building maintenance corruption case, including the chairman of an Owners’ Incorporated Committee, contractor owners, and personnel from an engineering consultancy firm. While this case primarily concerns large-scale building maintenance, the underlying tactics — kickbacks from suppliers, inflated quotations, and opaque contract terms — are equally relevant warnings for individual homeowners planning residential renovation in Hong Kong.
According to the Consumer Council, more than 1,200 home renovation complaints have been received over the past 7 years, totaling over HKD 270 million, with an average of HKD 230,000 per case. The most common issues are vague quotations, delayed delivery, and warranty disputes. AC Design highlights 5 key red flags homeowners must watch for: (1) overly vague quotation items lacking material brands and quantities, (2) mandatory designated suppliers that may indicate kickback arrangements, (3) contracts missing delay penalty clauses, (4) excessive upfront payment demands above 30%, and (5) contractors without physical showrooms, portfolios, or insurance documentation.
To protect yourself before signing, AC Design recommends 4 essential steps: verify business registration and trade association membership (HKIDA), visit active construction sites and showrooms in person, demand proof of contractor insurance (minimum HKD 10 million third-party liability), and structure payments by milestone with inspection before each installment. With 20 years of industry experience, AC Design provides itemized quotations with brand-specific specifications, allows clients to source materials independently to eliminate kickback concerns, and offers comprehensive insurance plus 5-year structural warranty. Contact 5222 1129 for a free on-site consultation.