Case Studies | 案例實證
Silver Surveyors Limited meticulously selects the most representative real-world projects from our portfolio, transforming complex technical processes into clear, actionable solutions. Each case study reconstructs actual scenarios, spanning diverse areas such as leakage tracing, structural verification, mandatory building inspection, and legal dispute mediation. These examples demonstrate how we leverage scientific instruments and legal expertise to deliver precise, authoritative technical conclusions and compliance pathways for our clients. Here, you will discover the in-depth analysis behind each challenge, the rationale for technical method selection, and the critical details that lead to the successful resolution of statutory orders—embodying Silver’s professional value in every instance proven to withstand the tests of both court and time.
Liability Assessment for Water Seepage at G/F Shop of Shek On Building
Project Background
On May 16, 2023, Silver Surveyors Limited was commissioned to investigate a water leakage incident at Ground Floor Shop A, Shi'an Building, 102 Changsha Wan Road, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon. The shop, "Kong's Rosenberg Medical Store," reported ceiling subsidence, concrete spalling, and continuous dripping, leading to short-circuiting of lighting fixtures and power outage. The client suspected the leakage originated from the upper floor's renovation work, requiring clarification of responsibility.
Key Issues and Liability Analysis
1.Source of Leakage
The public fire hose involved was located in the loft space of the unit and fully enclosed by the tenant’s wooden framework, with no access points reserved for inspection.
The tenant’s obstruction prevented the Owners’ Corporation (OC) and management company from conducting routine maintenance, becoming the primary cause of the undetected leakage.
2.Management Negligence
The previous management company failed to take immediate emergency measures (e.g., using water pumps) after the incident, exacerbating the losses.
No evidence indicated that the management company followed procedures to activate insurance or maintain incident records.
二、Scientific Loss Assessment
After reviewing the opposing surveyor’s (Pierre Leong & Co. Ltd.) report, Silver Surveyors identified multiple issues:
Lack of Evidence: The report claimed "total loss" for 1,132 items but provided no conclusive proof (e.g., photos of severe water immersion).
Exaggerated Assessment:
Example: Health supplements and medications showed only superficial moisture on packaging, with no damage to internal contents.
Silver Surveyors’ Conclusion: Only a minimal portion of goods (e.g., deer antler products) required compensation, with 98% of items showing no damage.
（Inventory of partial cargo loss, accurate to price, quantity, and damage condition）
（Assessment of structural damage in the entire renovated damaged shop, with precise evaluation of flooring and ceiling in every area)
三、Case Value and Industry Implications
Liability Clarification: Established that tenants’ improper enclosure of public utilities constitutes primary responsibility, setting a precedent for similar disputes.
Technical Rigor: Cross-referenced photos, inventory lists, and on-site records to refute unsubstantiated claims, highlighting the importance of evidence-based assessment.
Risk Management Advice: Property owners should regularly inspect accessibility of public facilities, and management companies must establish emergency response protocols.
Silver Surveyors’ Insight
In leakage disputes, scientific evidence and legal logic are indispensable. This case demonstrates how systematic verification restores factual accountability, preventing unreasonable losses for clients.
Expert Declaration
This report is signed by Mr. Leung Ka Chun (MRICS, MCIOB), a Registered Surveyor and Court-Accredited Expert Witness, complying with Appendix E of the Hong Kong Rules of the District Court.
All conclusions are based on objective data and verifiable evidence, possessing legal validity.
For the full report or related service inquiries, contact Silver Surveyors Limited: +852 34899268.
