Flat owners will be given assistance when the mandatory building and window inspection schemes are implemented, Secretary for Development Carrie Lam said today.

The mandatory building inspection scheme will require owners of buildings aged 30 years or more, except domestic buildings not exceeding three storeys, to conduct inspections and, if necessary, repairs of the common areas, external walls and projections every 10 years.

Under the mandatory window inspection scheme, owners of buildings aged 10 years or more, except domestic buildings not exceeding three storeys, will need to conduct inspections and, if necessary, repairs to all windows every five years.

Speaking on a radio show today Mrs Lam said she understands some flat owners, especially the elderly, will have difficulty organising inspections and paying for repairs.

She said the Government will consider various ways to help the elderly, such as inviting non-profit making social welfare groups to represent the elderly in forming incorporated owners and applying for subsidies.

Seniors can also apply for subsidies from the Government in collaboration with the Housing Society and Urban Renewal Authority. The Housing Society will also provide a subsidy for the first building inspection to eligible owners.

A loan scheme for flat owners to repair their property has also been launched by the Buildings Department.