In response to growing concerns about construction quality, homebuyers and citizens’ groups in Pune are urging the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) to implement a regulatory framework that ensures the highest standards of construction. The authority, on December 4, released a consultation paper, seeking public input on the proposed regulatory measures.
A MahaRERA official stated that suggestions from the public will be collected until December 31, and the authority will subsequently release a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). The framework, designed to enhance construction quality, will initially be optional for developers, becoming mandatory at a later stage. Projects adopting this initiative will be prominently featured on the MahaRERA website, aiding prospective allottees in making informed decisions during their property selection process.
MahaRERA Chairman Ajoy Mehta emphasized the importance of the framework in maintaining construction quality, highlighting its eventual transition from optional to mandatory status. According to the provisions of the RERA Act, homebuyers can report defects in construction quality, compelling developers to rectify them within 30 days. However, the defect liability period is currently limited to five years from the date of possession.
The proposed framework introduces the appointment of third-party agencies responsible for assessing construction quality before the homebuyers take possession. The consultation paper advocates Third-Party Quality Monitoring, aiming to ensure construction quality right from the project’s inception, thereby preventing costly and time-consuming rectifications after completion.
Representatives from citizens’ groups welcomed the proactive step, noting that the involvement of third-party agencies would eliminate the need for them to raise quality-related concerns with the authorities. Advocate Godfrey Pimenta from the Watchdog Foundation praised the authority’s initiative as a positive move.
A member of the Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (Credai), speaking anonymously, acknowledged that while developers adhere to norms, an additional check from the authority would further guarantee the topmost quality in construction.
