Flat owners hit by Hong Kong fire to receive annual HK$150,000 rental subsidy
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Flat owners displaced by Hong Kong’s deadliest fire in seven decades will receive an annual subsidy of HK$150,000 (US$19,280) each for two years to rent homes in the private market, under the latest government relief measure worth HK$1.2 billion.
Deputy Chief Secretary Warner Cheuk Wing‑hing also said on Thursday that both flat owners and tenants of Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po would receive a one‑off subsidy of HK$50,000 to support their relocation.
Thousands of displaced residents are currently staying in hotels, youth hostels or other temporary housing, he said, adding that many had expressed a wish to receive a rental subsidy.
“This would allow them to rent units in the private market that better suit their specific needs – for example, remaining in the same district or ensuring convenience for commuting to work, attending school or receiving medical treatment,” he said.
“As the government no longer has emergency accommodation available in Tai Po district, we believe that providing rental subsidies is the most effective and feasible solution.
“It gives residents the autonomy to choose long-term housing that best fits their family circumstances.”