Checking common areas in housing units

is really important for every resident. It helps all residents feel comfortable, safe and happy. If these areas, such as gardens, walkways, elevators and parking lots, are not maintained, problems such as safety issues, low property values ​​and unhappy residents occur the can be raised

In Karnataka, it is the job of housing associations or building owners associations to keep these areas in good condition and there is a law that governs how this is to be done. In this article, we take a look at the rules, responsibilities and best practices for managing common areas in housing sectors in Karnataka. Best practices include regular cleaning, checking for problems, good communication, and using environmentally friendly methods.

Understanding Common Areas in Housing Societies

Common areas refer to parts of a residential complex shared by all residents and not owned by individual apartment owners. Some common areas typically include:

• Corridors and lobbies

• Staircases and elevators

• Parks and playgrounds

• Clubhouses and community halls

• Parking areas

• Swimming pools, gyms, and other amenities

According to the Karnataka Apartment Ownership Act, 1972, all apartment owners consider these areas their collective property. They should be maintained jointly through the association.

Legal Framework for Maintaining Common Areas

• Karnataka Apartment Ownership Act, 1972: This law helps create groups for apartment owners and explains their responsibilities for keeping common areas clean and safe.

• Karnataka Societies Registration Act, 1960: Many housing societies are registered this law, which sets rules for how these societies operate, including how they handle maintenance and solve problems.

• Karnataka Ownership Flats Act, 1972: This law describes what builders must do for common areas before an owners' association is formed. It includes their responsibility to maintain these areas until they are handed over to the apartment owners.

Responsibilities of Housing Societies for Common Area Maintenance

The Apartment Owners Association (AOA) or Residents Welfare Association (RWA) is primarily responsible for maintaining common areas. However, it's important to remember that each resident plays a crucial role in this collective responsibility. Key responsibilities include

1. Regular Cleaning and Upkeep:

They ensure that common areas such as corridors, staircases, and lobbies are regularly cleaned and maintained. This includes sweeping, mopping, and maintaining the hygiene of shared spaces.

2. Repairs and Maintenance:

Conduct regular checks and repairs on elevators, corridor lighting, plumbing systems, and other utilities. Maintain outdoor amenities like playgrounds, swimming pools, and parking areas to ensure they are in proper working condition.

3. Security:

Installing and maintaining security systems such as CCTV cameras and security gates and hiring security personnel to safeguard common areas and ensure the safety of all residents.

4. Utility Management:

Managing shared utilities like common areas water tanks, sewage systems, and electricity meters. This includes ensuring that power backup systems like generators are maintained and functioning correctly.

5. Green Spaces and Landscaping:

It maintains gardens, parks, and landscaping areas that form part of the common property. This includes watering plants, trimming lawns, and ensuring that walking paths and other amenities are in good condition.

Funding for Maintenance: Society Maintenance Fees

Housing societies collect maintenance fees from residents to cover expected area maintenance costs. These fees are typically calculated based on factors such as:

•  Per square foot of owned space: Maintenance fees may be proportionate to the size of each resident's apartment.

• Fixed charges: All apartment owners may charge an equal flat fee.

• Usage-based fees: Certain amenities (e.g., gym or swimming pool) may be subject to additional charges for residents who use them regularly.

The fees cover cleaning, repairs, staff salaries (security and housekeeping), electricity    
for common areas, water supply, and upkeep of amenities like clubhouses or gardens.

Common Maintenance Challenges

Disputes Over Fee Collection:

Disagreements over maintenance fees are frequent. Some residents may feel the charges are too high, or others may fail to pay on time. The association must establish a transparent fee structure and enforce timely payments.

Unclear Division of Responsibilities:

Confusion often arises between residents and the association over who is responsible for maintaining certain areas, such as balconies or private terraces. Clearly defining the boundaries of responsibility within the society's by-laws can help prevent disputes.

Ageing Infrastructure:

As buildings age, the cost of maintaining common areas increases due to wear and tear. The society must set aside a reserve fund for long-term repairs, such as roof repairs, elevator replacements, and water system overhauls.

Contractor and Service Provider Management:

Managing third-party service providers, such as cleaning staff or maintenance contractors, can be a challenge, especially in ensuring the quality of service. The association must regularly evaluate service providers and maintain contracts that detail service expectations.

Best Practices for Efficient Maintenance

Regular Audits and Inspections:

Regular inspections of the building's infrastructure and common areas can detect problems early and prevent more significant issues. Regular audits of maintenance expenses also help ensure transparency.

Effective Communication:

Clear and timely communication between the association and residents is critical to avoiding disputes and fostering a sense of community. Notices regarding repairs, service shutdowns, and fee structures should be communicated in advance through regular meetings, newsletters, or digital platforms, keeping everyone informed and involved.

Green and Sustainable Practices:

Incorporating eco-friendly practices, such as rainwater harvesting, solar panels for common area lighting, and waste segregation, can reduce long-term maintenance costs and contribute to sustainability.

Annual Maintenance Plans:

Developing an annual maintenance plan that outlines routine tasks (cleaning, painting, repairs) and budgeting for larger projects (replacing elevators, repairing roofs) is a proactive step that helps keep maintenance on track and ensures the financial security of the housing society.

Legal Recourse for Maintenance Disputes

Suppose disputes arise between residents and the association regarding the maintenance of common areas. In that case, there are legal mechanisms in place to resolve them

Housing Society By-Laws

The society's by-laws should clearly outline maintenance responsibilities, payment schedules, and penalties for non-payment. These by-laws are enforceable by law and provide a framework for resolving internal disputes.

Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA)

Under the RERA Act, residents can file complaints with the regulatory authority regarding poor maintenance or negligence by the builder before handover or by the association after handover.

Civil Courts

Civil courts in Karnataka can intervene to provide legal resolutions for more significant disputes that cannot be resolved within the society or through RERA.

Conclusion

Maintaining common areas in housing societies is essential for ensuring all residents safety, comfort, and satisfaction. By adhering to Karnataka's legal framework, housing societies can effectively manage these areas, foster a cooperative environment among residents, and avoid potential disputes. Regular maintenance, transparent communication, and proactive financial planning are crucial to creating a well-maintained and harmonious living space for everyone.