The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority has barred developers from promoting real estate projects as retirement homes that do not meet its prescribed standards as part of its new guidelines to boost transparency and hold them accountable in their dealings with stakeholders.

Also Read: What Is Indian Succession Act And How Does It Apply In Estate Planning?

The May 8 order comes after feedback from the public and other stakeholders. Effective from the circular date, its comprehensive guidelines specify the minimum physical specifications for constructing retirement homes. Developers must now follow the prescribed specifications for senior living projects, which are a follow-up to the model guidelines issued by MahaRERA in February this year, in line with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs policies.

Read the previous guideline here:

Here’s all you need to know about the MahaRERA specifications for retirement homes:

Building Design

Developers must follow green building principles, such as using renewable energy sources and proper signalling systems—audio and visual signage—near lifts and ramps. The buildings must have wide staircases with handrails as specified and no steps in corridors. Kitchens must have natural lighting and ventilation. Bathrooms must have wash basins, shower areas, and anti-skid tiles. The corridors, lobby, and lift area must be well-lit, with proper ventilation and power back.

Security

The buildings must have an alarm system for safety and security, and security personnel must be deployed at the entry and exit gates, the ground floor, and other strategic locations. They must also use CCTV cameras and ensure the proper display of emergency and other important contact numbers in the common areas.

Also Read: The Top Destinations in Thailand for Elderly Travellers: A Serene Journey of Discovery

States and UTs Implementing RERA Rules

Thirty-two states and union territories (UTs) have set up their Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), and 28 states and UTs have also set up Real Estate Appellate Tribunals (REATs) as of April 8, 2024. So far, they have resolved or disposed of 1,21,966 complaints across India.

Maharashtra has the highest number of real estate projects (45,245) registered with RERA, followed by Tamil Nadu (21,505) and Gujarat (12,972) as of April 8 this year. Uttar Pradesh RERA has resolved the maximum number of complaints (45,221), followed by Haryana (20,604) and Maharashtra (16,843).