Standard form of contract for decoration, repair and maintenance works for laymen use

In Hong Kong, there are a vast number of new and old buildings which need regular decorations, repairs and maintenances. For large-scale projects, the owner normally appoints a professional consultant to help them plan, design and administrate the works. However, for small-scale projects, some owners may directly appoint a contractor to carry out the works. Unfortunately, most owners, as lay customers of construction services, do not have knowledge in building construction and contract. Even a contract is signed, it may not be detailed enough or one-sided in favour of the contractor. As a result, owners are often in disadvantageous position in the event of disputes with contractors. In order to give owners a reasonable protection, a 'Standard Form of Contract for Decoration, Repair and Maintenance Works' was published for laymen use. This paper explains the major clauses of this contract, and compares the differences between this contract and other standard form of building contracts administrated by building professionals. This paper also critically examines the underlying considerations on the protection of lay owners under this contract.