Bengaluru: Apartment residents seek builder accountability, parking norms in new Bill

Residents of apartment complexes in Bengaluru have raised concerns and proposed amendments to the upcoming Karnataka Apartment (Ownership and Maintenance) Bill, 2026, during a meeting held on Wednesday. The gathering included representatives from various apartment associations who emphasized the need for stronger legal frameworks around builder accountability, association governance, and parking regulations. The proposed changes aim to address long-standing issues faced by apartment dwellers and ensure smoother management of residential properties. The discussions focused heavily on the challenges associated with managing apartment associations. Usha Sekhar, one of the participants, pointed out that some apartment owners refuse to sign Form B, which is essential for joining the resident welfare association (RWA). This refusal often leads to claims that the association itself is illegal due to incomplete membership. Such situations create confusion and hinder effective community management. Vasudeva, another attendee, stressed the importance of setting clear timelines for holding association elections and defining the duration of office-bearers' terms. He argued that these measures would help maintain continuity and prevent power vacuums. Additionally, there were calls for provisions that would streamline the transfer of responsibilities when current office-bearers step down prematurely. Another key issue discussed was the management of common areas in case builders abandon their projects. Arpita noted that developers often construct multiple towers and register them individually, leading to complications in managing shared spaces. She advocated for clauses that would prevent the creation of multiple associations, thereby reducing administrative burdens and potential conflicts. Vidya Gogai, representing a group from north Bengaluru, highlighted the need for regulations governing internal renovations within individual apartments. She warned that unauthorized structural modifications could pose serious risks to building integrity and safety. In addition, she proposed a specific policy addressing car parking, citing the growing number of vehicles owned by residents as a pressing concern. Open spaces within apartment complexes are increasingly being repurposed for parking, which can lead to overcrowding and reduced quality of life. Gopalan, a flat owner, suggested limiting the liability of association office-bearers in the event of accidents. This would provide protection against unwarranted legal actions and encourage more individuals to take on leadership roles within their communities. Arun Dasappa recommended the establishment of an independent ombudsman to handle disputes related to apartment living, ensuring fair and impartial resolutions. Satish Mallya, president of the Bangalore Apartments’ Federation, expressed support for the proposed amendments, emphasizing the necessity of a comprehensive law that protects the rights of apartment owners while delineating the responsibilities of builders. He welcomed the Chief Minister's commitment to introduce the Bill in the Legislative Assembly after incorporating public feedback, viewing this as a positive step towards improving housing governance in the state. The proposed amendments reflect a collective effort to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency in apartment management. As the legislative process moves forward, stakeholders remain hopeful that these suggestions will be considered and integrated into the final version of the Bill. The outcome of these deliberations will likely shape the future of residential property governance in Karnataka.