The Buildings Department is drawing up a guide for property owners and the public on the common greening works of buildings in Hong Kong, Secretary for Development Paul Chan says.
     He told lawmakers on June 15, private building owners are responsible for the inspection and maintenance of their properties, including their greening facilities.
     He said in light of the greened roof collapse incident at City University last month, the department has been looking into any roof greening of a large area in Hong Kong that might have been carried out without prior evaluation by building professionals, and will take immediate action against any case found.
     The department has also issued a circular to the building industry, reminding practitioners of the existing provisions under the Buildings Ordinance applicable to roof greening.
     The circular also reminds professionals and contractors of their duties to inform building owners of the actions to be taken during the design and construction of greening facilities, the impact of greening on the structure of the subject building and how to safely operate and properly maintain the facilities after commissioning them.