[reema]

I was wondering if people could throw some light on basic costs of living in Hong Kong with regard to utilities:

Gas, electricity, water , phone , repairs and any others

I know its dependent largely on usage but ballparks would be very handy (if you lived in a 1000sq ft place and were home only weekends and evenings and used a number of appliances liberally including ACs, washing machines,cookers,fridge, audio video etc and cooked like maniacs)

would the amounts vary depending on the location of residence?

[KnowItAll]

Other than your rent you should expect to pay the following property / residential related costs.

Gas: If your building has piped gas (most modern buildings). Depends on the amount you cook / water heaters etc. Not really variable by location.

http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Ut.../Town_Gas_L471

Some locations have piped LPG gas and are serviced by agents of Shell. Check with the management company of the building you're interested in.

http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Ut...Shell_Gas_L472

Estimate about HK$100-350.

Electricity: Two major electricity distribution companies in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Electric Company (HK + Lamma Island)
http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Ut...c_Company_L473

and

China Light and Power :
http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Ut...and_Power_L474

Estimate about 25 cents per sq foot. The cost is variable on usage and not location. Some older buildings / apartments have highly inefficient air conditioners and appliances which could end up costing more to run than to purchase new ones.

Phone: Most people usually go with PCCW / Hong Kong Telecom. Around HK$70-100 / phone line depending on services like Voice mail etc. Cheaper to buy your instrument than to rent one. Factor in another HK$250 to 500 for broadband internet, which you can get installed from several ISPs.

http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Ut...g_Telecom_L475

Repairs: We have several handymen listed in our directory. Most major repairs are the responsibility of your landlord -- make sure you contract includes this.

Water: The water supplies department of Hong Kong Govt is responsible for water supplies. The cost varies depending on your usage.

http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Ut...epartment_L476

Estimate about HK$30-50 per month

Other major costs would include govt rates and management fees. It is common to have these included in your rental package with the landlord.

Make sure you check this wonderful guide to renting in Hong Kong.

http://www.geoexpat.com/resources/Detailed/432.html

[KnowItAll]

Would also recommend you visit First Choice Hong Kong.

http://www.geoexpat.com/Hong_Kong/Se...Hong_Kong_L477

[goodfood]

I'm sure Reema will have more questions but before she does, let me say thanks to Know-it-all for that comprehensive answer

[kevin]

Electricity: 25cents per square foot? I think that is wrong. Maybe in Winter with just the fridge running and no fans but turn on the aircon in summer and this will go up to nearer $0.5-1 per square foot.

[KnowItAll]

Yes, it is close to $.75 to $1 in summers.

Thats what happens when the spousal unit pays the bills.

[travel]

Dear All,
Thanks for your answers.
I appreciate it.

[JJexpat]

CLP bill for the last two months: 2236 I leave one air con set to dehumidify for all but tw0-three months of the year. It keeps the place reasonably cool, and ensures that art work brought from abroad doesn't crinkle and dropp in the humidity. Power is my biggest expense after rent--with food and transportation tied for a close third (if not counting eating out).