How Much Does Mandatory Window Inspection Cost in Hong Kong?

The Mandatory Window Inspection Scheme (MWIS) is administered by the Buildings Department (BD). Owners of private buildings aged 10 years or more are required to periodically commission a qualified person to inspect the windows of their units for structural safety and submit a declaration to the BD. The inspection covers window frame condition, sashes, fixings, and fall-prevention measures, ensuring windows do not pose a falling hazard due to deterioration or poor maintenance. The scheme operates on a rolling basis — the BD issues statutory notices to owners of specific buildings each year, and owners who receive a notice must complete the inspection and declaration within the specified deadline or face prosecution.

Mandatory window inspection (MWIS) and home inspection are two entirely separate schemes. Window inspection focuses specifically on window structural safety, is enforced by the Buildings Department, and is only required when an owner receives a statutory notice from the BD. Home inspection is voluntary and typically commissioned before a property purchase or renovation, covering the overall structural and functional condition of a unit — a much broader scope than window inspection alone. Both can be arranged at the same time, but different qualified professionals and fee structures apply to each. Some companies offer combined services, which can reduce overall costs.

No. The window inspection fee only covers the safety assessment and submission of the statutory declaration to the Buildings Department — repair works are not included. If structural issues are identified (such as warped frames, loose screws, deteriorated sealant, or windows that cannot close properly), the owner must separately engage a licensed contractor for repairs. Repair costs vary depending on the severity of the problem, typically ranging from HK$500 to HK$5,000 or above. It is advisable to ask the inspection company whether they offer post-inspection repair services when requesting a quote, as some companies provide bundled inspection and repair packages, which can help simplify the process.

Mandatory window inspection costs are primarily influenced by the number and size of windows, the floor level (higher floors or windows not accessible from inside may require external scaffolding, increasing costs), the qualifications of the inspector (Authorised Persons generally charge more than qualified contractors), and whether an expedited declaration is required. Buildings with complex window designs — such as floor-to-ceiling windows, special aluminium alloy frames, or non-standard window types — require more time to assess and will be priced accordingly. It is recommended to obtain quotes from at least three licensed window inspection companies and confirm that the submission of the declaration to the Buildings Department is included.