Real Estate Shock: This Cage in Hong Kong Costs 167 USD per Month 0 89

A bill has been passed in Hong Kong introducing strict minimum standards for apartment buildings — a cheap form of housing where, according to AP, about 220,000 people reside. The new rules mandate a minimum size for units, a mandatory separate bathroom, and other safety and sanitation requirements.

According to the new regulations, the minimum area for such a residential unit is now at least 8 sq. m, which is smaller than a standard parking space in Hong Kong. About a quarter of the 110,000 existing apartments of this type do not meet this requirement. In addition to the area, each unit must have an opening window, fire safety measures, lighting, ventilation, and an isolated toilet room with a door.

Landlords will be given a transitional period to bring existing housing up to standard. Authorities estimate that about 30% of such apartments will require major renovations. After the grace period, only certified housing will be allowed for rent. Beijing authorities view the housing crisis as one of the reasons for the mass protests in Hong Kong in 2019 and intend to completely eradicate such forms of living by 2049.

For example, an apartment in Hong Kong is 4 square feet (less than 1 m²). Whether you believe it or not, this tiny room, which is very much like a cage, is actually considered an apartment in Hong Kong — its rent even costs 167 dollars a month! These living spaces began to appear in the 1950s; currently, they are most often inhabited by single men living off government assistance.

Here’s another apartment in Hong Kong — 16 square feet (1.5 m²). Apparently, Hong Kong has mastered the art of making small spaces, as this apartment is smaller than an average prison cell. Of course, it’s better than living in a cramped cage, but the term “better” is still somewhat misplaced here.

Renting this space for one month costs 384 dollars and is more comparable to a closet than a real room. Fortunately, most of them are equipped with wireless internet access, air conditioning, and a window (although not all of them have these amenities). The hallways leading through the buildings housing such apartments are just as small, and the rooms are essentially just a place to put a bed. Some tenants decorate their “apartments” with small decor – shelves above the bed and various trinkets.