The social construction of the housing management profession in Hong Kong

Abstract

Housing is the most important of asset of the general public. It combines the function of a living place and a major storage of wealth. Socially, it is a vertical community lived hundreds even thousands of people. Technically, it is an artifact of modern architecture and a combination of various building services and specific knowledge and skills are required to keep it running smooth. The one who operates this epitome of a society is named as “Housing Manger” Housing management is a young profession in Hong Kong. Its status and role is built progressively through interaction with its service clients, those are the residents of estates. The social construction process forms the base of the profession in image and agreement building. Understanding the relationship between residents’ perception and the evolution of housing management profession helps the profession to setup its direction and goal in order to provide more appropriate services to safeguard the interest of the general public. The purpose of this study is to analyze how the role of housing management profession is developed and affected by the perception and expectations of residents. Housing management itself is also examined with the eight characteristics of a classical profession to see whether it fulfills the requirements to differentiate itself from other occupations and professions. A questionnaire survey and an interview in micro perspective are carried out to collect the first hand information of thinking from residents and industry practitioners. The findings indicated that the general public holds a positive image on the housing management profession and agree its contribution to the public interest, which is maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment for residents. The latest movements in qualification framework and legal recognized licensing system of housing managers have clearly stated its service boundary of the profession and improved its legitimacy in the industry. On the other side, the findings also indicate some aspects are waiting improvement to strengthen the status of the professions. It shows the direction for all stakeholders of the industry to work and cooperate with each other for the ultimate goal of a safe and enjoyable living environment.