MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR PROVISIONS: ALLOCATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES

Maintenance and Repair Provisions: Allocation of Responsibilities in India

In India, maintenance and repair provisions within various sectors, especially real estate and infrastructure, are pivotal for ensuring longevity and functionality of properties and public amenities. Clear allocation of responsibilities among stakeholders is essential for effective management. This article delves into the key aspects of maintenance and repair provisions and their allocation of responsibilities in India.

Legal Framework for Maintenance and Repair

1. Real Estate Sector

In the real estate sector, maintenance and repair responsibilities are typically defined in the sale or lease agreement. The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) mandates that developers are responsible for the repair and maintenance of the property for a specified period post-handover.

2. Housing Societies and Apartment Complexes

In housing societies, the responsibility of maintenance and repair is usually divided between individual unit owners and the society’s management committee. The committee handles common areas, while unit owners are responsible for their own flats.

3. Commercial Buildings

For commercial properties, maintenance responsibilities are often outlined in the lease agreement. Tenants are generally responsible for interior repairs, while landlords manage structural and external maintenance.

Responsibilities of Developers

1. Pre-Handover Phase

Developers are responsible for ensuring that the property is constructed as per the agreed specifications and is free from defects. This includes structural integrity, plumbing, electrical systems, and overall safety.

2. Post-Handover Phase

Under RERA, developers must address any defects in the property within five years from the date of possession. This covers structural issues, poor workmanship, and quality of services.

Responsibilities of Homeowners

1. Individual Maintenance

Homeowners are responsible for the upkeep of their own units, including minor repairs, interior maintenance, and ensuring the proper functioning of fixtures and fittings.

2. Contribution to Common Maintenance

Homeowners must contribute to the maintenance fund managed by the society or apartment association. This fund is utilized for the upkeep of common areas, amenities, and overall infrastructure of the housing complex.

Responsibilities of Housing Societies

1. Common Area Maintenance

Housing societies are responsible for the maintenance of common areas such as staircases, elevators, gardens, clubhouses, and parking lots. They must ensure these areas are safe, clean, and functional.

2. Infrastructure Repairs

The society’s management committee must address major repairs and renovations of the building’s infrastructure, including water supply systems, sewage systems, and electrical networks.

Commercial Property Maintenance

1. Landlord’s Responsibilities

Landlords are generally responsible for the structural integrity of the building, external repairs, and maintenance of common areas. This includes roof repairs, exterior painting, and maintaining parking lots.

2. Tenant’s Responsibilities

Tenants handle the interior maintenance of their rented space, including fixtures, fittings, and minor repairs. They must also ensure that their activities do not cause damage to the property.

Dispute Resolution

1. Mediation and Arbitration

Disputes regarding maintenance and repair responsibilities can often be resolved through mediation and arbitration. These methods are encouraged to avoid lengthy litigation.

2. Legal Recourse

If disputes cannot be resolved through mediation, parties may seek legal recourse. Courts will refer to the terms of the contract and relevant laws to adjudicate responsibilities and liabilities.

Clear allocation of maintenance and repair responsibilities is crucial for the smooth operation and upkeep of properties in India. By understanding the legal framework and the specific duties of each stakeholder, disputes can be minimized, and the longevity of properties can be ensured. Properly maintained infrastructure not only enhances the quality of life but also preserves the value of investments in real estate and commercial properties.