FEHD launches mediation skills training for water seepage disputes (with photo)

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     The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (July 7) that, in line with the Government's initiative to resolve building water seepage disputes through co-ordination and mediation, it has launched the Pilot Scheme on Community Mediation with the Department of Justice (DoJ). Funded by the Environment and Ecology Bureau (EEB), the scheme offers six full-day mediation skills training sessions, free of charge, for property management personnel, with approximately 20 participants per session.

     Water seepage in buildings is primarily caused by structural or facility damage, as well as inadequate maintenance. Property management companies, owners, and occupants each have a responsibility to effectively manage, maintain, and repair the building, including resolving seepage issues. Therefore, their co-operation is essential for addressing water seepage problems. The Government hopes that the Pilot Scheme will equip property management personnel with the necessary knowledge and skills in mediation, enabling them to intervene early in addressing water seepage cases. This initiative aims to empower them to effectively serve as the primary point of contact for residents in dispute resolution, thereby enhancing communication and fostering community harmony.

     The inaugural training session was successfully held today, commencing with opening remarks delivered by a DoJ representative, followed by mediation skills training. An FEHD representative also provided participants with insights into managing water seepage in buildings.

     The FEHD invited property management staff from over 90 housing estates that have already joined the Scheme of Participation by Property Management Agents in Tackling Water Seepage in Residential Building (PMA Scheme) to enrol in the training through the Property Management Services Authority, and the response has been highly positive. Participants who complete the training will receive a certificate, with the curriculum combining theoretical lectures and role-playing exercises to teach core mediation principles and their application in real-world disputes. The course aims to enhance the ability of property management personnel to effectively handle water seepage cases.

     Under the PMA Scheme, the FEHD has been engaging private estate management companies to play a stronger role in addressing water seepage issues by co-ordinating and mediating resident disputes and ensuring proper maintenance of common areas. The EEB, FEHD, and DoJ will review the programme's effectiveness and refine its content as necessary, with plans to expand training opportunities and empower more property management professionals to handle seepage disputes efficiently.

Ends/Monday, July 7, 2025
Issued at HKT 19:35

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The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (July 7) that, in line with the Government's initiative to resolve building water seepage disputes through co-ordination and mediation, it has launched the Pilot Scheme on Community Mediation with the Department of Justice. Funded by the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the scheme offers six full-day mediation skills training sessions, free of charge, for property management personnel. The inaugural training session was successfully held today. Photo shows an FEHD representative providing participants with insights into managing water seepage in buildings.