Increase Property Value by Creating a Unique Selling Feature

Combining two separate flats into one home can add value in terms of uniqueness, space, and exclusivity but the process can be a long and stressful one. Here we share some tips to make your home a special one!

Combining Two Flats on the Same Floor into One Home

Check to see if the units are structurally safe to combine
Appoint a structural engineer, architect or building surveyor
Check for load-bearing walls, Gas and Water Lines and how they will be impacted
Submit professional plans to the Building’s Department

This Designer Renovated Unit has been combined using two side by side units providing a huge terrace and over 780sq ft of livable space. Currently for Sale at $25M (non combined units are selling for $8.6M on the same floor) https://www.qi-homes.com/properties/hang-sing-mansion/2927

Combining Two Flats to a Duplex

Similar to combining horizontally you need to check that the hole in the ceiling is not affecting the structural integrity of the building. In the same cases, strengthening works such as the installation of steel beams may have to be carried out.

Combining Top Floor to Roof Terrace

If the staircase planned leads up to the rooftop terrace, a roof hatch or shelter would have to be built as access and protection from rainwater. In this case, the landlord would not only have to seek the authorization of the Buildings Department, but would also have to apply for an “occupation permit”. Also, the new structure should not violate fire safety and building codes. For example, it cannot block fire escape routes of other residents.

This stunning internal staircase has been building approved to a roof terrace with an electric skylight. Currently for Sale at $62M https://www.qi-homes.com/properties/wan-chui-yuen/22387

What works require building department permission?

constructing a new extension, vertically or horizontally, to an existing building
linking two or more floors by removing parts of the floor slab and/or adding internal staircases
combining two or more units into one by removing the partition walls
conversion of an existing building, including wholesale conversion of an existing industrial building
installing cladding or curtain wall to the façade of existing buildings
adding water tanks, canopies, shelters, structural frames for advertisement signboards, air-conditioning plants, etc.
modification of means of escape, means of access and barrier free access

How long does the process take?

The entire process of drawing up plans, submissions of plans and getting approval can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year depending on the complexity of the works.

What are the legal implications?

check if there are restrictive covenants in the title, deed of mutual covenant or land lease that prevent two flats in a building being converted into a single dwelling
if the units have not received building permission and are considered two separate dwellings and a new buyer purchase both units they will be considered as two transactions by the inland revenue and the second unit may be subject to the 15% stamp duty.
similarly, if the owner wishes to sell one of the combined units in the future, the owner will have to appoint an authorized person to reinstate alterations made to the premises and submit the building plan for Buildings Department’s approval prior to entering into a binding contract to sell.
lastly, any mortgages or bank loans that may be held for the combined units may require to be paid off prior to selling one of the units if sold seperately.

More information can be found on this government web site.