Bengaluru: Flat dwellers seek builders’ responsibility, parking norms in new bill

Bengaluru cityscape view. | Photo credit: File photo

Members of housing associations in Bengaluru on Wednesday (July 15) proposed several amendments to the proposed Karnataka Apartment (Ownership and Maintenance) Bill, 2026, including provisions related to builders’ liability, association management, parking management, dispute resolution and interior renovations, among others.

A significant part of the discussion focused on the functioning of housing cooperatives. Representative Usha Sekhar pointed out the difficulty in securing membership of Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), saying, “Some flat owners refuse to sign Form B and then say your association is illegal because not everyone has joined the association.

Vasudeva, another stakeholder, called for the bill to prescribe clear timelines for holding association elections and define the term of office. Participants also sought provisions that would facilitate a smooth transition in the event that office holders resign before completing their terms.

They also asked for clarification on the process of handing over common areas when builders leave projects. “Builders come up with multiple towers and register each tower separately and the management of common areas becomes chaotic,” said Arpita, who also sought inclusion of provisions to prevent formation of multiple associations.

Vidya Gogai from North Bengaluru suggested including a provision to regulate internal renovations in individual flats, saying structural modifications could compromise the safety of the buildings.

She also called for a car parking policy to be set aside, noting that increasing vehicle ownership has led to the conversion of open spaces in housing estates into parking areas.

Gopalan, another flat owner, urged the government to limit the liability of association functionaries in case of accidents. Arun Dasappa suggested setting up a dedicated ombudsman for housing related disputes.

Satish Mallya, president of Bangalore Apartments’ Federation, said, “Karnataka needs a comprehensive law that protects the rights of apartment owners, clearly defines the responsibilities of builders, strengthens the powers of housing societies and promotes transparent and self-governing community governance. The chief minister’s assurance that the bill will be introduced in the legislative assembly,” he said after incorporating public proposals for the development.

Published – 15 Jul 2026 23:05 IST