Redevelopment
of Housing Societies in India
What is Redevelopment?
Many housing societies in India are very old. Buildings
become unsafe, parking is not enough, and facilities are poor.
Instead of repairing, the society can choose redevelopment.
In redevelopment:
- The
society gives the land to a builder.
- The
builder demolishes the old building.
- A new
building with modern flats is built.
- Society
members get new flats, usually bigger and better.
- The
builder also sells extra flats in the new building to recover costs.
Step-by-Step Redevelopment Process
- Society
Decision
- At
least 70% members must agree.
- Decision
is recorded in the society meeting.
- Check
Feasibility
- A
structural audit is done to confirm the building is unsafe or old.
- Choose
a Developer
- Bids
are invited from different builders.
- The
best offer is selected.
- Sign
Agreement
- A Development
Agreement is made.
- It
includes:
- Size
of new flats
- Temporary
rent during construction
- Amenities
promised
- Completion
timeline
- Approvals
from Authorities
- Builder
gets permission from the municipal corporation and other bodies.
- Move
Out Temporarily
- Members
shift to rented houses (rent paid by the builder).
- Old
building is demolished.
- New
Flats Handover
- Builder
completes construction.
- Members
get their new flats with all promised facilities.
Benefits of Redevelopment
- New
Homes – Modern design, bigger space.
- Better
Facilities – Parking, lifts, security, water supply.
- No
Cost to Members – Developer pays for construction and rent.
- Increased
Value – Property prices rise after redevelopment.
- Safety
– Old, unsafe buildings are replaced with strong ones.
Challenges and Risks
- Member
Disputes – Not everyone agrees.
- Delays
– Builder may take longer than promised.
- Fraud
Risk – Some developers may cheat or leave midway.
- Legal
Issues – Cases may go to court if terms are not followed.
How Members Can Stay Safe
✅ Check if society’s land title
is clear.
✅
Get the Development Agreement reviewed by a lawyer.
✅
Select an experienced builder with a good track record.
✅
Ask for a bank guarantee for timely completion.
✅
Ensure agreement is registered as per state laws.
FAQs on Redevelopment of Housing Societies
Q1. Is redevelopment free for members?
👉
Yes, members don’t pay. Builder bears all costs.
Q2. How long does redevelopment take?
👉
Usually 2–4 years, depending on approvals and construction.
Q3. Do members get rent during redevelopment?
👉
Yes, builder must pay rent or provide alternate housing.
Q4. Can a few members stop redevelopment?
👉
If 70% or more agree, redevelopment can move ahead (rules may vary by state).
Q5. Is the new flat always bigger?
👉
Usually yes, but it depends on the builder’s offer and local laws (FSI rules).
Conclusion
Redevelopment is a smart way for old housing societies in
India to get new homes with modern facilities at zero cost.
But, to avoid disputes, societies must:
- Take
decisions transparently,
- Choose
the right builder, and
- Get
strong legal agreements in place.
Done properly, redevelopment can turn an old
society into a modern residential complex with higher property value and better
living standards
