MahaRera brings in rules for retirement homes, senior citizen housing projects

The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has recently issued comprehensive guidelines pertaining to essential aspects of housing projects designed for senior citizens. These guidelines encompass detailed specifications for building design, including considerations for accessibility and ease of mobility. Additionally, the guidelines address specific requirements for kitchens, bathrooms, implementation of green building principles, provision of lifts and ramps, construction of staircases, design of corridors, ventilation systems, and safety measures within these housing projects, stated a Times of India news report.

MahaRERA has proposed a new regulation for project quality assurance. Developers must self-certify that they have provided detailed information about the project's technical aspects and quality.

The real estate regulator has also established minimum physical requirements for retirement homes and senior citizen housing projects.

The provisions state that buildings with more than one floor must have wheelchair-accessible elevators, ramps, audio-visual signage, and at least one elevator large enough for a stretcher and paramedic staff. Additionally, there should be ramps for level changes, gas leak detection systems in kitchens, and anti-skid tiles in toilets and bathrooms. Bathroom doors should open outward for emergency access.

Compliance of these physical specifications is mandatory while executing these projects.

The regulatory body has proposed new rules for ensuring the quality of construction projects. Developers will need to provide detailed information about the technical aspects of their projects and certify that they meet certain standards. The proposed rules are available for review and feedback on the MahaRERA website. Initially, following the new rules will be optional, but developers who choose to do so will be recognized on the MahaRERA website. Eventually, all developers will be required to comply. The certification will cover various quality aspects, including structural design, stability, testing, input materials, workmanship, and other important factors.