According to a Hong Kong Consumer Council survey published in November 2025, 75% of audited renovation contractors failed to disclose structural-wall risks in their quotations, and nine of them actively suggested demolishing load-bearing walls to create open-plan kitchens. Under Cap. 123 of the Buildings Ordinance, demolishing a structural wall without Buildings Department (BD) approval is a criminal offence: first-time conviction carries up to HK$250,000 fine plus 12 months’ imprisonment, with continuing daily fines of HK$20,000. The BD issued 1,283 demolition orders in 2024, of which 67% involved residential interior structural alterations, with average penalties between HK$35,000 and HK$80,000. Civil liability is also significant — owners have previously been ordered to pay HK$800,000 for damage to a building’s external structure caused by improper demolition. This article explains how to distinguish structural walls (shear / load-bearing walls, typically 180mm+ thick, located on building edges, near staircases, or adjacent to sewage risers) from non-structural partition walls (brick, lightweight block, or panel walls of 100-120mm). It introduces the Minor Works Control System (MWCS) three-tier classification and corresponding submission fees ranging from HK$5,000 (Class III) to HK$50,000 (Class I). Most importantly, it lists the four mandatory contract clauses every Hong Kong homeowner should insist on before signing a renovation contract — including liability for BD demolition orders, Authorized Person (AP) licence verification, and third-party liability insurance (annual premium roughly HK$1,500-3,000). AC Design provides itemised quotations that separate structural assessment, submission, and Registered Minor Works Contractor (RMC) construction fees so clients understand every charge. To book a structural assessment or on-site measurement, call 5222 1129 or WhatsApp the team — the consultation is free, and AC welcomes clients to bring quotations from other companies for a transparent line-by-line comparison.