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Renovation Contract Checklist: Essential Clauses Every Hong Kong Homeowner Needs
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Decoration2 Editorial·Before signing any renovation contract, make sure it includes these essential clauses. Protect your rights as a homeowner with our comprehensive checklist.
Renovation Contract Checklist
A thorough contract is the best protection against renovation disputes. Here's every clause your contract should include.
Basic Information
Must Include
- Full names and contact details of both parties
- Property address
- Contract date
- Start and completion dates
- Total contract amount
Scope of Works
Be Specific
Every work item should be described in detail:
Good example:
Living room floor: Install 600×600mm polished tiles (Brand: XXX, Model: XXX), including substrate preparation and labor.
Bad example:
Living room floor tiling(too vague)
Work Items Checklist
- Demolition works
- Plumbing & electrical
- Wet trades (tiling, plastering)
- Carpentry & joinery
- Painting
- Hardware & sanitary ware installation
- Cleaning
Materials Clause
Must Specify
- Brand name and model number
- Specifications (size, color, finish)
- Quantities
- Who supplies (contractor or owner)
- Material substitution process
Payment Terms
Recommended Schedule
| Stage | Percentage | Trigger |
|---|---|---|
| Contract signing | 30% | Upon signing |
| Phase 2 | 30% | After plumbing & tiling |
| Phase 3 | 20% | After carpentry |
| Final payment | 20% | After inspection |
Key Points:
- Never prepay more than 40%
- Inspect completed work before each payment
- Retain 5–10% as a defects liability deposit
Timeline Clauses
Must Include
- Commencement date
- Expected completion date
- Delay penalties (recommend HK$500–1,000 per day)
- Owner-caused delay provisions
- Force majeure clause
Warranty Clauses
Standard Coverage
- Warranty period: 1–2 years
- Scope (structural, waterproofing, electrical, etc.)
- Response time for warranty claims
- Exclusions (accidental damage, natural wear)
Variation Orders
How Changes Are Handled
- All changes require written confirmation
- Revised quotation must be approved before work starts
- Payment terms for additional work
- Impact on timeline
Signing Tips
- Read every clause — Ask about anything you don't understand
- Keep an original copy — Both parties should have one
- Include all attachments — Drawings, quotation, materials list
- Photograph everything — Take photos of every page
- Have a witness — Consider having a third party present
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