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TV API launched to remind buildings owners to exercise caution when selecting Qualified Persons (with photo)
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     The Buildings Department (BD) launched a new set of TV Announcements in the Public Interest (APIs) today (November 10) to remind building owners to exercise caution when selecting and appointing Qualified Persons (QPs) to carry out prescribed inspection and repair works under the Mandatory Window Inspection Scheme (MWIS).

     If building owners have questions about the QP's advice and assessment, they should seek clarification from the QP. They may also invite other QPs to provide quotations for reference and comparison.

     A spokesperson for the BD said the department attaches great importance to alleged irregularities or misconduct involving service providers. The BD will conduct an investigation upon receipt of such reports and take appropriate follow-up actions, including instigating prosecution or disciplinary action.

     Under the MWIS, the standard of prescribed repair works for windows shall not be inferior to that of the original design. Building owners may also choose to upgrade the construction standard of the windows to meet the current requirements during the course of the MWIS. If a building owner only wishes to comply with the basic requirements of the MWIS and has no intention to carry out any window upgrading works, the owner should make this clear to the QP at the quotation stage.

     "If a QP after an inspection considers that window repair or even replacement is necessary, the building owner may seek clarification from the QP on the reasons. If the owner disagrees with the QP's advice, he may consider appointing another QP to carry out the inspection and make a repair proposal," the spokesperson added.

     Building owners may make reference to the relevant standards and guidelines in relation to the MWIS published on the BD's website to assess whether the items and scope of inspection and repair suggested by the QP are reasonable.

     The list of QPs has been uploaded onto the BD's website (www.bd.gov.hk). Some minor works contractors associations have published in their respective websites lists of their members willing to provide QP services and cost reference. Hyperlinks to the websites have been made available at the BD webpage. Enquiries can also be made through the BD hotline on 2626 1616.

     The TV API can be viewed at www.isd.gov.hk/eng/tvapi/14_bs29.html.

Ends/Monday, November 10, 2014
Issued at HKT 16:00

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