The decision, aimed at ensuring higher construction standards, was taken in consultation with relevant stakeholders. (representative picture)
The certificate will be based on several key factors, including the project's structural design, stability, various quality tests, the type of materials used and the skill level of the workforce involved
In a bid to improve quality of construction and protect home buyers, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has introduced a new rule requiring developers to submit a “Quality Assurance Certificate” at the end of every financial year, which also Must be posted on their real estate website. The Amendment to the General Provisions of MahaRERA 2017 has been officially announced in the Government Gazette.
The decision, aimed at ensuring higher construction standards, was taken in consultation with relevant stakeholders. It is designed to minimize the need to invoke defects liability clauses, which require developers to correct defects in a home within five years of taking possession. The measure is expected to make builders more responsible and provide better-quality homes to homebuyers.
The certificate will be based on several key factors, including the project’s structural design, stability, various quality tests, the type of materials used and the skill level of the workforce involved. Fire safety and fire protection measures are also key components of the certification process. Developers must ensure that these aspects are thoroughly documented and verified by project engineers and supervisors before making the certificate public.
MahaRERA’s new regulations emphasize the importance of quality control at all stages of construction. The guidelines state that soil testing, appointment of structural works, on-site testing facilities for raw materials and compliance with Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) requirements are mandatory for certification. The regulations also emphasize the need for proper recording of critical works such as electrical installations, water supply, drainage and flood protection measures, all of which must be overseen by registered contractors.
If an independent third party is involved in quality inspections during and after construction, the results of their inspections must be recorded and certified. The developer is ultimately responsible for verifying all information and approving the Quality Assurance Certificate. This measure is expected to significantly increase developer responsibilities and improve overall construction quality.
Ajoy Mehta, Head, MahaRERA said, “Today, all industries maintain their focus on quality and the housing industry is no exception. Despite this, quality in the industry continues to be a topic of continuous discussion and concern. MahaRERA's efforts are to raise the benchmark of construction so that The provision of defects liability period becomes irrelevant. Since December, MahaRERA has been working on establishing preliminary parameters to ensure better quality of construction. The certificate is based on detailed criteria regarding important factors such as the overall construction process. , structural concepts, stability, various tests, materials used on the project and the skill level of the workforce involved in the project.
“Developers will have to self-certify and provide it on their websites. Since the details will be public and involve the builder’s credibility, they will adopt best construction practices. MahaRERA believes this will enhance the responsibility of developers to homebuyers The ultimate benefit will be the acquisition of better quality homes.
