Subdivided unit WR1 in Hong Kong

When does an SDU need WR1 work?

New fixed installations and relevant alterations, additions or repairs require inspection, testing and completion certification for the actual scope. At enquiry stage, explain whether you need an existing-installation assessment, rewiring or work supporting an individual-meter application.

Official sources: EMSD · Registered contractor guidance

Individual utility meters and landlord submeters

The BHU individual-meter requirement refers to a meter provided by the electricity company. Ask the REC to check separation of each SDU’s supply circuits, meter positions and necessary drawings before following the utility’s dedicated application process. Appearance alone cannot establish whether an existing landlord submeter meets the application needs.

Official sources: EMSD · SDU individual metersEMSD · Meter installation guide (March 2026)

Four things owners and operators can prepare

Use this checklist to support assessment. The utility determines the documents for a formal supply application. Do not upload identity documents or tenants’ personal details for an initial website enquiry.

1. The parent flat address, labels identifying each SDU and an owner or authorised contact.
2. Available floor plans, electrical drawings, previous WR1 certificates or work records; say if these are unavailable.
3. Photographs of existing meters and proposed positions taken from a safe location. Do not open electrical enclosures or touch wiring.
4. The number of SDUs, shared areas, proposed work and access or shutdown arrangements.

Official sources: CLP · SDU supply applications

From assessment to WR1 document delivery

Establish the premises and work before agreeing tests, improvements and documents. Online details reduce repeated data entry; they do not replace site inspection.

1. Describe the existing situation and agree the responsible REC/REW and quotation scope.
2. Review circuits, meter positions, drawings and coordination needs; submit the applicable utility application separately.
3. Complete necessary work, inspection and testing, with improvements and retesting where needed.
4. Sign and endorse WR1 according to verified results and deliver the records. Utility acceptance and meter installation follow the utility’s arrangements.

Official sources: EMSD · Meter installation guide (March 2026)CLP · SDU supply applications

WR1 and WR2 serve different purposes

WR1 concerns work completion; WR2 concerns periodic testing of applicable installations. Check the installation category, approved loading and other applicable requirements. The SDU label alone does not determine the certificate, and it does not mean every unit needs a new WR1 each year.

Official sources: EMSD · Registered contractor guidance

BHU rules and registration for existing SDUs

At this review date, phase one began on 1 March 2026, with registration for existing SDUs running until 28 February 2027. The unlawful-letting provisions take effect on 1 March 2027. Arrangements differ for existing units, new units and units with valid grace-period registration; confirm the specific case with the Housing Bureau.

Official sources: Housing Bureau · BHU regime

What affects an SDU WR1 quotation?

Ask whether site testing, circuit records or drawings, remedial work, retesting and documents are included. Identify coordination for meter positions or shared facilities separately. A fixed price or issue date cannot be promised before assessment. Building alterations, fire safety and other professional matters also need separate consideration.

Official sources: Buildings Department · Subdivided units

Official sources and review date

Sources checked: 29 October 2026

Official sources: EMSD · SDU individual metersEMSD · Meter installation guide (March 2026)EMSD · Registered contractor guidanceHousing Bureau · BHU regimeCLP · SDU supply applicationsHK Electric · SDU supply applicationsBuildings Department · Subdivided units