MahaRERA Pioneers Regulation with Draft Model Guidelines for Retirement Homes

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In a groundbreaking move, the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has introduced draft model guidelines to regulate retirement homes across the state. Aligned with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) guidelines, this initiative aims to address concerns such as misleading advertisements and inadequate facilities for seniors in housing developments.

Background: MahaRERA's Response to Concerns

The genesis of these guidelines can be traced back to a comprehensive study by an NGO, highlighting the need for regulation in the retirement home sector. Acknowledging the significance of this study, MoHUA issued model guidelines in 2019. MahaRERA's draft order incorporates key provisions to enhance the quality of retirement homes, covering building design, green building principles, lifts, ramps, safety, and security.

Key Provisions in the Draft Guidelines

- Buildings with multiple floors must install elevators for accessibility.

- All elevators are required to feature an audio-visual system.

- Facilitate easy wheelchair access to and from the lifts.

- Mandate the incorporation of ramps throughout the premises for unimpeded wheelchair mobility.

- Doors must exceed 900 mm in width, preferably opting for sliding doors.

- Furnish lightweight, sturdy furniture without sharp edges for resident comfort.

- Staircases should have a minimum width of 1500 mm and include handrails on both sides.

- Prohibit fully open and spiral staircases for safety considerations.

- Limit staircases to a maximum of 12 steps.

- Corridors within buildings should be devoid of any steps for ease of movement.

- Install ramps wherever necessary to enhance accessibility.

- Place handles at a specific height to accommodate the convenience of residents.

- Indicate changes in floor levels with easily noticeable bold-coloured markings.

- Ensure kitchens are equipped with gas leak detection systems.

- Bathrooms should include a wash basin with provision for grab rails.

- Install anti-skid tiles in all bathrooms for added safety.

- Mandate toilet doors to open outwards for emergency access.

- Provide a backup arrangement for electricity to ensure uninterrupted power supply.

National Significance:

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Conclusion

The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) has taken a pioneering step by introducing draft model guidelines to regulate retirement homes in the state, aiming to address issues like misleading advertisements and inadequate facilities for the elderly. These guidelines, aligning with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) 2019 model, focus on enhancing the living conditions in retirement homes through provisions on building design, accessibility, and safety measures. Key features include mandatory elevators with audio-visual aids, wheelchair-friendly infrastructure, safety measures such as gas leak detection systems, and emergency power backup. MahaRERA's initiative not only seeks to improve the standard of living for seniors in Maharashtra but also sets a precedent for similar regulations across India, promoting a dignified and secure living environment for senior citizens. Public suggestions are invited until February 29th to further refine these guidelines.