Digital built environment: evolution of Hong Kong’s BIM policy

Hong Kong's updated building information modelling (BIM) policy, which mandates the use of BIM for construction works tenders, will change the way projects are delivered. Industry and clients need to move beyond compliance and embrace innovation. Collaboration and digital integration are crucial to keep pace in the market. 

In 2018, the Hong Kong Government’s Development Bureau (DEVB) implemented a mandate for Public Works projects to adopt BIM processes.  This policy was expanded to ensure Common Data Environment adoption in 2021. Now, a bolder new step has been released in its latest technical circular (DEVB TC(W) No. 1/2025).   

“Effective 1 April 2025, BIM models will be mandatory as part of tender information for all construction works.”

Specifically, BIM model elements that correlate to 2D tender drawings will be contractually binding, while Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) and other systems will remain as reference-only, for now. In addition, all Public Works departments are obligated to develop and implement a department asset information requirement (AIR) and a comprehensive asset management strategy.  

The Hong Kong Government’s directive on mandatory BIM and AIRs means that for all organisations involved in Public Works projects, BIM can no longer be considered a ‘deliverable’. It is an integrated process with contractual obligations for tender submissions.  

The AIRs should inform how that process delivers information at each project stage. This update directly impacts how projects are planned, designed and delivered, necessitating a clear understanding from the outset to benefit the project.  

Building with certainty: fewer changes and quicker delivery  

An effective BIM strategy ensures project delivery is centred around a trusted information model that serves as centralised information source for all stakeholders.  

Making the BIM model contractually binding will increase the trust and reliance on that information, as all stakeholders are now legally accountable for its accuracy and updates.  This new policy is a well measured shift to benefit the industry and guide increased adoption. 

“The change will discourage the common practice of producing tender drawings in 2D and preparing an often misaligned BIM model as a separate deliverable.”

This will bring several major benefits, notably enhanced coordination by eliminating the disconnect between 2D drawings and 3D models, removing significant project risks.  

Improved tender price accuracy can also be achieved through well-coordinated 3D models that facilitate quantity take-offs and cost estimations. The changes will enable Project Managers to gain streamlined decision-making capabilities, as they can confidently depend on the BIM process for critical decisions and design management, knowing it aligns with contractual documents. 

While this approach can require greater upfront effort in design coordination, it often significantly reduces costly delays and changes during construction.  

Future-ready asset management 

With this new mandate in place, it brings to light the importance of well-defined AIRs for asset owners and operators. A robust AIR is critical in ensuring a successful lifecycle BIM adoption, guiding the production of BIM data with clear purpose.  

The AIR focus is to ensure that the generated BIM data directly supports an organisation’s strategic goals and asset management needs, specifically for that project.  Each Public Works department's unique asset management challenges require tailored information strategies.  

• Effective AIR should encompass several key components, including: 
• Strategic purpose: clearly defined objectives aligned with operational goals. 
• Information scope: precise specification of required asset and system data. 
• Technical standards: established formats and classification systems. 
• Delivery protocol: structured processes for information handover. 
• Quality assurance: robust validation mechanisms for data integrity. 

When properly executed, asset owners secure long-term operational benefits, including better decision-making, cost savings and future-proofed data.  

For the supply chain, AIR provides clear and actionable guidance, reducing ambiguity, reworks and inefficiencies. This collaborative clarity benefits all stakeholders and contributes to a successful BIM project.  

Delivering on the promise of BIM through to operations 

Our recommendation extends beyond the mandate by highlighting the need for a well-planned and coordinated ‘digital handover’.  Effective handover is crucial to realise the benefits of BIM for asset management challenges, along with bringing owners and operators on the journey. 

Despite the promise of BIM to transform asset management, its value is often lost during project handover, with valuable models relegated to project archives. To unlock the operational power of the asset information model (AIM), organisations must move beyond generic BIM standards to implement focused strategies that align with specific business objectives.  

Clearly specified information requirements are crucial for effective information management and to provide benchmarks which clients can check deliverables against.   

While ensuring machine-readable formats for these requirements is a vital step towards automating assurance processes and enhancing efficiency, the necessary role of client Information Manager should not be underestimated.   

“Success requires active management from the client’s (or appointing party’s) nominated Information Manager. As part of the delivery team, this person should ensure digital asset handover delivers real value following the handover.”

For best results, operators should be actively involved in the development of the AIRs, ensuring they understand the information they will receive and how to use it effectively.  

Integrating operator involvement and training during project delivery, rather than after the handover, significantly enhances the benefits and ensures smoother operational transitions. 

The operational value of BIM can only be fully realised through targeted digital strategies with active stakeholder involvement. 

The future of construction is digital – at accelerated pace 

This policy marks a pivotal step in Hong Kong's digital construction journey, demanding more than regulatory compliance. It’s an opportunity to transform how built assets are delivered and managed.  

Experts in programme and project management, BIM strategy and assurance are critical in this transition.

“These experts can support clients with robust BIM and AIM handovers for digital twins.”

They’ll also shape a more efficient, sustainable and data-rich built environment for Hong Kong's future. 

Forward-thinking organisations that embrace the new technical circular can avoid potential challenges, such as non-compliance penalties, project delays and risks – while strengthening their position through innovation. Those who embrace this shift will not only meet required standards but also gain a competitive advantage through enhanced operational efficiencies.