Residence permit process not finished

I have a Z visa and have been to my interview but there was a snag with my institution and I have not yet turned over my passport for the final part. My 30 days ends in 3 days, should I be concerned. I am being encouraged to leave the mainland, go to Hong Kong and come back on a tourist visa. I saw that this effectively cancels the Z residence permit process, is there a penalty for being in the mainland over 30 days if the permit is in process?