The Maharashtra government has introduced a revised framework for housing society redevelopment, requiring developers to complete projects within two years from the stage at which the foundation or plinth certificate is issued. In exceptional cases, the deadline can be extended to three years.
The new framework, issued through a government order on Wednesday, replaces the redevelopment guidelines introduced in 2019. It places greater emphasis on transparency, member participation and monitoring of projects from selection of a developer through completion.
Under the revised rules, housing societies must appoint a project management consultant (PMC) to assess land title, development potential, FSI and TDR, parking, open spaces and residential or commercial requirements. The PMC must prepare comparative reports on different development options within two months, allowing members to evaluate the potential benefits of each proposal.
The developer selection process must include at least three bids. If fewer bids are received, the society has to extend the tender process by at least 15 days, followed by another one-week extension if required. Existing bidders can also submit revised offers.
Once a developer is selected, the redevelopment agreement must be executed within three months. It must clearly specify the completion timeline, bank guarantee, alternative accommodation arrangements, RERA carpet area and dispute-resolution mechanism. Managing committee members, office-bearers and their relatives will be prohibited from becoming developers for the project.
The rules also strengthen protections for existing occupants. Registered permanent alternative accommodation agreements must be completed before residents are shifted, with individual agreements to be executed within three months of registration of the redevelopment agreement. Alternative accommodation should preferably be provided in the same locality, or through mutually agreed rent, deposit or transit arrangements.
Commercial occupants will receive additional protection, with shops and commercial premises allowed to be vacated only after necessary legal approvals and registration of permanent alternative accommodation agreements. Their existing rights are also required to remain protected.
The framework further requires approved building plans to be presented before the general body. Members will have free access to key redevelopment records.
After possession, societies must decide membership and share-certificate applications for new purchasers within three months. Flat allotments should follow existing floor positions as far as possible. Where a lottery is required, it must be conducted after completion, video-recorded and submitted to the registrar along with the minutes and certified allotment list.
Source: Times of India
