Full Breakdown
Allegations of Fraud in Hong Kong's Construction Sector Following Deadly Fire
12/12/2025, 12:54:10 PM
Overview of the Incident
The Hong Kong construction industry is facing severe scrutiny following allegations of fraudulent practices linked to a deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, which resulted in at least 160 fatalities and displaced around 4,000 residents. The fire, which ignited on November 26, 2025, is believed to have been exacerbated by the use of flammable scaffolding nets and foam boards, raising significant concerns about safety regulations in the sector.
Allegations of Fake Certificates
In a recent press conference, medical sector legislator David Lam condemned the construction industry as "rotten," highlighting the submission of fake calibration certificates by subcontractor Novox Ltd for the ongoing expansion project of Prince Margaret Hospital (PMH). The Hospital Authority (HA) reported that five calibration certificates for vibration sensors were suspected to be forged, with Guangdong Zhongzhenghang Metrology Testing Co Ltd denying any issuance of these documents. Lam emphasized the need for reform in the construction sector, citing exploitation and the hiring of illegal workers as prevalent issues.
Government Response and New Regulations
In response to the fire and the fraudulent practices, the Hong Kong government has implemented new safety requirements for scaffolding nets. Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn announced that contractors must now submit non-flammability certificates for netting materials, which will undergo laboratory testing before use. The government plans to increase the number of designated testing facilities to accommodate the anticipated demand for these tests.
Impact on Construction Projects
The Buildings Department ordered the removal of scaffold nets from over 200 renovation sites across the city after discovering suspected forged safety certificates at two locations. As of December 7, 2025, a total of 227 private buildings complied with this order. Secretary for Security Chris Tang noted that seven out of 20 safety net samples from Wang Fuk Court failed fire safety tests, suggesting that substandard materials contributed to the fire's rapid spread.
Criticism and Community Response
Residents of Wang Fuk Court have expressed frustration over the government's inaction regarding safety complaints prior to the fire. They reported raising concerns about the use of flammable materials but received little response from authorities. The owners' corporation is now seeking to terminate contracts with the construction company, Prestige Construction & Engineering Co, and the supervising consultancy firm, Will Power Architects, both of which are under investigation for alleged manslaughter and corruption.
Official Statements & Responses
The Hospital Authority has stated that it will conduct a comprehensive review of all hospital construction projects associated with Novox and has reiterated its zero-tolerance policy towards fraud. Lam's call for reform reflects a growing demand for accountability within the construction sector, as the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragedy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Our construction industry is as rotten as it gets; everything can be falsified, and there is exploitation at every level,” — David Lam, Medical Sector Legislator
- “the HA will comprehensively review and trace all hospital construction projects and services commissioned by Novox, and the certificates submitted by Novox. The HA has zero tolerance” — Hospital Authority Statement
What's Next
The committee of Wang Fuk Court’s property owners is set to convene to discuss safety systems and financial matters following the fire. Meanwhile, the government has announced a one-off payment of HK$100,000 to affected residents from the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court. As investigations continue, the implications of this incident may lead to broader reforms in Hong Kong's construction regulations.
