Replacing aluminium windows in Hong Kong: a homeowner guide
What to check before, during and after replacing your windows, on one page.
Window replacement is "minor works"
Under the Buildings Department's Minor Works Control System, repairing or replacing a window is usually a Class I, II or III minor works item, depending on height above ground, frame size and whether the main frame is involved. Works no more than 3.5 m above ground, for example, generally fall under Class III item 3.6.
The work must be carried out by a contractor registered with the Buildings Department for the relevant class and type, with the required documents submitted to the Department. Before signing, ask the contractor which class and item applies and who will make the submission.
Served a window inspection notice?
The Buildings Department's Mandatory Window Inspection Scheme covers private buildings aged ten years or more. Owners served a statutory notice must appoint a qualified person to inspect their windows, with any repair or replacement carried out by a registered contractor.
Many members are familiar with the inspection and repair process; ask about it when you request a quotation.
What a written quotation should include
When comparing quotes, compare materials and responsibilities, not only price.
Profile series and wall thickness
e.g. 50 or 70 series, wall thickness and finish (powder-coated or anodised).
Glass type and thickness
Tempered, laminated or insulated glazing, and thickness in mm.
Hinges, latches and rivets
Material and brand of stainless-steel friction stays, latches and rivets.
Removal, sealing and clean-up
Whether it covers removing the old window, sealing, debris disposal and making good.
Minor works submission
Class and item, and the name and registration number of the registered contractor making the submission.
Warranty and payment terms
Warranty period and scope, and stage payments rather than full payment upfront.
Handover checklist
Open and close every sash several times; it should run smoothly and seal when latched.
Check the sealant around the frame is continuous with no gaps or cracks.
Confirm glass, hardware and profiles match the quotation.
Collect the warranty and copies of the minor works submission documents.
Make sure the site is cleaned and debris removed.
Everyday window safety
Regularly check hinges and rivets for rust, looseness or missing parts.
Latches should lock firmly; close and latch every window before a typhoon.
Don't hang heavy items outside windows or force the sashes.
If a sash sags, wobbles or won't close, stop using it and have a member firm inspect it promptly.
Guides by type of home
Who is responsible and which rules apply depend on the type of building you live in.
Private flats
What private flat owners need to know about responsibility, rules and building management before replacing windows.
Read guide →Tong lau (walk-ups)
Windows in older walk-up buildings are prone to rust and loosening. Here is what to check before replacing them.
Read guide →HOS flats
What Home Ownership Scheme owners need to know before replacing windows.
Read guide →Public rental housing
Public rental flats belong to the Housing Authority. If a window has a problem, contact your estate office first.
Read guide →Village houses
Village houses in the New Territories are regulated differently from urban flats. What to know before replacing windows or adding a glass room.
Read guide →Common window problems
Leaking windows
Common causes of water coming in around a window, and what to do.
What to do →Rusty hinges
Hinges and rivets are what keep a window safely in place. If you see these signs, act quickly.
What to do →Windows that won't close
A window that won't close properly can blow open in a typhoon. Causes and fixes.
What to do →Window inspection notice
The steps of the Buildings Department's Mandatory Window Inspection Scheme, on one page.
What to do →Soundproof windows
Near a road, flyover or building site, soundproof windows can make a big difference. What to look for.
What to do →Typhoon check
Ten minutes checking your windows before a typhoon can prevent accidents.
What to do →Want to choose the frame and glass?
You can ask your member contractor to use a named manufacturer's products and list them in the quotation. HKAWDA founding member LE-RELAX manufactures and wholesales aluminium windows, doors and glass from its own Zhongshan factory. It supplies only and does not install, so ask your contractor to specify LE-RELAX.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Association carry out work itself?
No. HKAWDA is a trade association; member firms quote for and carry out the work directly. Use the member directory to search by district.
How do I confirm a firm is a member?
Members usually display the HKAWDA sticker and hold a numbered membership card. Search the company name in the directory, or email info@hkawda.org.
How long does a window replacement take?
It depends on the number and size of windows and fabrication lead time. Ask the firm for measuring, ordering and installation timings and put them in the contract.
Can I raise a concern about a member's work?
Yes. Please raise it with the firm first; if unresolved, email us and we will follow up. The Association is not an arbitrator; for contract disputes, consider the Consumer Council or legal advice.
Ready to start?
Find member firms in your district and ask for written quotations.