MahaRERA Drafts Model Guidelines on Regulation of Retirement Homes, Invites suggestions/views by February 29
To ensure that housing projects cater to the needs of retired and senior citizens, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has introduced draft model guidelines for such developments. This initiative marks MahaRERA as the pioneer housing regulatory body in India to establish provisions specifically for retirement housing projects. The primary goal of MahaRERA is to guarantee that retired and senior citizens find essential facilities upon moving into these housing communities.
Ajoy Mehta, Chairman of MahaRERA, emphasized the increasing necessity of housing projects tailored for retired and senior individuals. Despite the rising demand, many developers have overlooked the fundamental requirements of this demographic. To prevent potential fraud and disappointment among retirees and seniors, MahaRERA has released Draft Model Guidelines for these emerging housing projects. The aim is to finalize and implement these guidelines as soon as possible.
Upon implementation, developers will need to incorporate special provisions outlined in the Agreement for Sale and other relevant documents. Subsequently, senior citizen housing projects must adhere to the model guidelines.
The draft titled “Regulation of Retirement Homes” is accessible on MahaRERA’s website. MahaRERA is currently inviting suggestions and opinions on the guidelines, which can be submitted via email to suggestions.maharera@gmail.com until February 29th.
The development of these model guidelines follows feedback received by MahaRERA, indicating that many developers inaccurately promote their real estate projects as “Retirement Homes,” misleading potential buyers. Furthermore, several of these projects fail to meet minimum standards and specifications required for senior citizen residences.
Previously, the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) issued Model Guidelines, urging state regulators to introduce appropriate regulations. Accordingly, MahaRERA has drafted regulations for retired homes, specifying minimum physical criteria that projects must meet to accommodate the needs of senior citizens. These criteria encompass building design, adherence to green building principles, provisions for lifts and ramps, staircase dimensions, corridor design, lighting, ventilation, safety, and security.
Key provisions outlined in the Model Guidelines include:
– Installation of elevators in multi-floor buildings
– Audio-visual systems in all lifts
– Wheelchair-friendly access to lifts and mandatory ramps
– Wide doors, preferably sliding, with a minimum width of 900 mm
– Lightweight, sturdy furniture without sharp edges
– Staircase width not less than 1500 mm, with handrails on both sides
– Avoidance of fully open and spiral staircases
– Limiting the number of steps in a staircase to 12
– Step-free building corridors and necessary ramps
– Conveniently placed handles at specified heights
– Clear indication of level differences with bold-colored markers
– Gas leak detection system in kitchens
– Wash basins with grab rails in bathrooms
– Anti-skid tiles in bathrooms
– Outward opening doors for toilets
– Backup electricity arrangements
These comprehensive guidelines aim to ensure that housing projects for retired and senior citizens provide a safe, comfortable, and accessible living environment, reflecting the specific needs of this demographic.
Disclaimer: The information provided by A2 Digital is for general informational purposes only.
Source: PunekarNews