Authorities Halt Unauthorized Renovations at Chabad House Patong

Phuket—

The six‑story Chabad House Patong, a prominent Jewish community center in the heart of the resort town, has come under scrutiny after municipal officials discovered unauthorized structural modifications. The building, which serves as a hub for religious services, kosher dining, and cultural activities, was found to have converted its rooftop and parking area into restaurant and club facilities without official approval.

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The order follows remarks by Deputy Interior Minister Polpree Suwanchawee, who recently addressed concerns about a foreign cemetery project.

The Governor of Phuket has directed a comprehensive investigation into the operations of Chabad Patong, with a strict deadline of seven days to deliver findings.

Now for the update:

According to inspection reports and community sources, the building’s layout includes:

• Ground Floor (G): Lobby entrance and a women’s ritual bath (Mikveh).
• First Floor: Kosher restaurant, offices, children’s playroom, and a lounge for travelers.
• Second Floor: Synagogue for religious ceremonies.
• Third Floor: Banquet hall.
• Fourth Floor: Operations and staff offices.
• Fifth Floor: Additional banquet hall.
• Sixth Floor (formerly rooftop): Recently converted into a restaurant, club, and banquet space with steel structures and white canvas roofing.

Officials also noted that part of the parking area had been enclosed and repurposed as a restaurant space measuring 15 by 12 meters.

On September 1, 2026, Patong Municipality issued a formal order under Section 40(1) of the Building Control Act, instructing the property owner to cease construction, alteration, or use of the modified areas. The rooftop addition, spanning 14 by 12 meters, and the parking‑lot restaurant were both deemed unauthorized. Authorities stated that safety concerns, including structural integrity and load‑bearing capacity, must be addressed before any approval could be considered.

Municipal officials confirmed that a notice has been sent to the company managing Chabad House Patong. If no response or application for proper permits is submitted within 30 days, the municipality will proceed with legal enforcement. Should an application be filed, engineers will review whether the alterations meet safety and regulatory standards.

Chabad centers worldwide often serve as both religious and cultural hubs. In Phuket, the Patong branch offers synagogue services, kosher meals, and ritual facilities, while also hosting large gatherings during Jewish holidays. The recent expansion, however, has raised questions about balancing community needs with compliance to local building laws.