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

Members of apartment associations in Bengaluru on Wednesday (July 15) suggested several amendments to the proposed Karnataka Apartment (Ownership and Maintenance) Bill, 2026, including provisions relating to builder accountability, association governance, parking management, dispute resolution, and internal renovations, among others.

A significant portion of the discussion centred on the functioning of apartment associations. Usha Sekhar, a representative, highlighted difficulties in ensuring membership in resident welfare associations (RWAs), stating, “Some apartment owners refuse to sign Form B and then they say your association is illegal because not everyone has joined the association.”

Vasudeva, another stakeholder, called for the Bill to prescribe clear timelines for conducting association elections and define the tenure of office-bearers. Participants also sought provisions that would facilitate a seamless transition when office-bearers resign before completing their term.

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

Vidya Gogai, from north Bengaluru, suggested including provisions to regulate internal renovations within individual flats, noting that structural alterations could compromise the safety of buildings.

She also called for a dedicated policy on car parking, observing that increasing vehicle ownership has led to open spaces within apartment complexes being converted into parking areas.

Gopalan, another flat owner, urged the government to limit the liability of association office-bearers in cases of accidents. Arun Dasappa proposed establishing a dedicated ombudsman for apartment-related disputes.

Satish Mallya, president of the Bangalore Apartments’ Federation, said, “Karnataka needs a comprehensive law that safeguards the rights of apartment owners, clearly defines the responsibilities of builders, strengthens the powers of apartment associations, and promotes transparent and self-governed community management. The Chief Minister’s assurance that the Bill will be introduced in the Legislative Assembly after incorporating public suggestions is a highly welcome development,” he said.