Maharashtra has revised the redevelopment framework for cooperative housing societies, introducing tighter timelines, greater transparency in developer selection and additional safeguards for members before they vacate their homes.
The state cooperatives department issued a government resolution on Wednesday, replacing the 2019 redevelopment framework. The revised provisions require societies to compare redevelopment options, seek multiple developer bids, maintain detailed project records and complete key processes within specified timelines.
Under the new framework, a project management consultant (PMC) appointed by the housing society must examine the property’s land title, development potential, FSI/TDR, parking, open spaces and residential and commercial requirements. The PMC must prepare project reports covering applicable development options along with a comparative statement within two months of appointment.
Three Developer Bids Required
The revised framework requires societies to obtain at least three bids from developers through a competitive tender process. If fewer than three bids are received, the society must extend the bidding period by at least 15 days.
If the required number of bids is still not received, a further one-week extension must be provided before the available bids can be placed before the general body. Existing bidders may submit revised offers, subject to the prescribed procedure.
The provision is intended to give housing societies a broader basis for comparing developer proposals before taking a final decision.
Members Get Access to Redevelopment Records
The new framework also sets out provisions for greater access to redevelopment-related information. Society members will be able to inspect records free of charge, including notices and meeting minutes, video recordings, PMC reports, tender documents, developer bids, comparative statements and draft development agreements.
Copies of these records can also be obtained by members on payment of the prescribed fee.
Once a developer is selected, the society has three months to execute the redevelopment agreement. The agreement must specify key details, including the project completion period, bank guarantee, alternative accommodation arrangements, RERA carpet area and dispute-resolution mechanism.
Two-Year Completion Timeline
The revised framework specifies a two-year completion period from the prescribed foundation or plinth certificate stage. An extension of up to three years may be permitted in exceptional circumstances.
The framework also places conditions on when members can be asked to vacate their existing homes. A registered permanent alternative accommodation agreement is mandatory before shifting.
Individual permanent alternative accommodation agreements must be executed within three months of registration of the redevelopment agreement. Members should receive alternative accommodation in the same area as far as possible. Alternatively, rent, deposits or transit accommodation can be provided based on mutual agreement.
Protection for Commercial Occupants
The revised provisions also cover shops and other commercial premises. Commercial occupants can be required to vacate only after the required legal approvals and registration of the permanent alternative accommodation agreement.
Their existing rights are required to remain protected during the redevelopment process.
Rules for Post-Redevelopment Allotment
The framework also establishes timelines after redevelopment. A society must decide on membership and share-certificate applications from new flat or shop purchasers within three months of possession.
For existing members, new flats should follow their previous floor positions as far as possible. Where a lottery is required for allotment, it must be conducted after completion and video-recorded. The minutes, recording and certified allotment list must be submitted to the Registrar within one month.
The government order also prevents managing committee members, office-bearers or their relatives from becoming developers for the society’s redevelopment project. Approved building plans must be placed before the general body.
The revised framework therefore brings redevelopment under a more structured process, covering project evaluation, competitive bidding, documentation, member access, rehabilitation agreements, construction timelines and post-redevelopment allotment.
