MahaRERA Becomes The First Regulatory Authority To Release Guidelines For Retirement Housing Projects.

Previously, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) had issued model guidelines, urging state regulators to implement appropriate regulations. Responding to this directive, MahaRERA has formulated this framework for Maharashtra.

The draft guidelines, titled 'Regulation of Retirement Homes', are available for review on the MahaRERA website, with the authority seeking input from all stakeholders. Feedback can be submitted via email to suggestions.maharera@gmail.com until February 29.

The draft comprises provisions organized into nine distinct categories, covering building design, green building principles, elevators and ramps, staircases, corridors, kitchens, bathrooms, lighting, and ventilation, as well as safety and security measures.

Important Provisions of the Draft Include:

1. i.All buildings with more than one floor must be provided with lifts that are suitably equipped to accommodate users requiring assistance and using wheelchairs and similar mobility tools.
2. ii.In order to minimize the exposure of senior citizens to the fumes and exhaust arising from the combustion of fossil fuels, it is desirable that there be a maximum (near total) use of non-polluting and renewable energy sources in retirement homes.
3. iii.All lifts must have audio and visual signage and signalling systems to accommodate users requiring assistance and using wheelchairs and similar equipment and mobility tools.
4. iv.Treads and risers should be as per the standards prescribed in the harmonised guidelines applicable to senior citizens.
5. v.Steps should not be introduced into corridors. If a change in level is unavoidable, then a ramp may be provided.
6. vi.The design of the kitchen shall be as per NBC, with natural lighting and ventilation.
7. vii.Toilet paper roll dispensers should be able to withstand heavy loads.
8. viii.Power Backup facilities are to be provided in each apartment of the retirement home, with a mandatory connection in the bathroom and kitchen.
9. ix.The lighting and ventilation for all buildings and components must be in compliance with MBBL and NBC.
10. x.Incorporate an alarm system on the premises, especially with separate switches in the main entry doors, bathroom, bedroom, and common areas.
11. xi.Security guard(s) shall be deployed on the ground floor at each entry and exit gate(s) with access to intercom facilities and basic telephone facilities.
12. xii.CCTV cameras are to be installed on each floor of the premises near the lift area and in all the common areas, lobbies, and reception areas, all the gates, parks, etc.
13. xiii.Surveillance of this CCTV footage is to be monitored on a regular basis by the security personnel.
14. xiv.Emergency fire-fighting services and disaster preparedness for evacuation are to be provided.
15. xv.Emergency and important contact numbers should be provided to all residents and displayed in all common areas, i.e., outside lifts.

No. MahaRERA/CC / 729 / 2024

Click Here to Read / Download Draft Model Guidelines