Stacy Shi More than 120,000 elderly residents in public rental estates will need to confirm their continuous occupancy to the Housing Department within the next two months as part of an effort to combat housing abuse. Director of Housing Rosanna Law Shuk-pui clarified that "continuous" occupancy means living in their flats for three consecutive months. She urged seniors to check their mailboxes and submit the necessary forms by November 30.
Speaking on radio yesterday, Law acknowledged that retired seniors may own additional properties and earn rental income. She added that seniors who have resided in their flats for 15 years will not be required to declare their assets or properties. Each case will be assessed individually, taking into account factors such as medical issues and frequency of hospital visits when determining eligibility.
For individuals admitted to residential care homes or those receiving care in the mainland under the government's Guangdong or Fujian schemes, the department may allow an adjustment period. During that time, they could be reallocated to a new flat if they express a desire to return to Hong Kong. "If, after the adjustment period, you feel comfortable living in the mainland, you should return your flat, and we will guarantee suitable public housing units should you decide to leave elderly care facilities," Law said.
The department has, meanwhile, evicted four public rental residents following investigations into luxury cars parked in the estates.