The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has recently implemented a new regulation that mandates developers to obtain an “Annual Quality Assurance Certificate” to be published on their websites at the conclusion of each fiscal year. This significant change is aimed at ensuring that the homes delivered to buyers meet elevated standards of quality and construction. The regulation has been officially published in the state gazette and forms part of the MahaRERA General (Amendment) Regulations, 2024, which are an extension of the existing MahaRERA General Regulations, 2017.
The introduction of the Quality Assurance Certificate is a proactive measure by MahaRERA to enhance transparency and accountability in the real estate sector. This certificate is based on a comprehensive evaluation of various factors that influence the quality of construction projects. These factors include the structural design and stability of the project, the results from different tests conducted, the types of raw materials utilized, the skill level of the workforce involved, and the implementation of fire safety measures.
According to a press release by MahaRERA, the decision to introduce the Quality Assurance Certificate was made after thorough consultations with all relevant stakeholders in the real estate industry. The primary objective of this new requirement is to minimize the need to invoke the defect liability clause, which can often lead to disputes between developers and buyers. By ensuring that developers adhere to stringent quality standards, MahaRERA aims to uphold the rights and interests of homebuyers in Maharashtra.
Developers are now obligated to provide specific details about their projects to project engineers and supervisors, who must verify this information before the Quality Assurance Certificate is made public. This process underscores the importance of accurate and transparent reporting to guarantee that the quality standards set by MahaRERA are met and upheld by developers across the state.
Under the MahaRERA Act, developers are held accountable for any defects in the homes for a period of five years from the date of possession, known as the defect liability period. During this time, developers are required to address any complaints within 30 days at their own expense, emphasizing the importance of timely and efficient resolution of issues raised by buyers. Furthermore, developers are mandated to maintain rigorous quality control measures throughout the project lifecycle to ensure compliance with MahaRERA’s guidelines.
One of the key aspects emphasized in the Quality Assurance Certificate is the installation of flood prevention and earthquake resistance systems, especially in multi-story buildings. This highlights the importance of incorporating measures to mitigate natural disasters and enhance the safety and durability of residential structures. Additionally, developers are required to disclose whether soil testing has been conducted and whether a structural engineer was engaged in the project, underscoring the significance of professional expertise in ensuring the structural integrity of buildings.
Moreover, developers are expected to maintain detailed site records to facilitate periodic certification by project engineers, reinforcing the need for diligent documentation and monitoring of construction activities. This proactive approach not only enhances accountability but also fosters a culture of transparency and compliance within the real estate industry.
In conclusion, the introduction of the Annual Quality Assurance Certificate by MahaRERA represents a significant step towards promoting quality and accountability in the real estate sector in Maharashtra. By mandating developers to uphold stringent quality standards and provide transparent reporting, MahaRERA strives to safeguard the interests of homebuyers and enhance overall trust and credibility in the real estate market. This regulatory measure underscores the commitment of MahaRERA to ensure that residential projects in Maharashtra meet the highest standards of quality and safety, ultimately benefiting both developers and buyers alike.