Bengaluru: The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is set to roll out a new maintenance policy for its apartment projects starting next month, aiming to bring greater structure, transparency, and efficiency in the management of residential complexes.
According to officials, the policy will primarily apply to newly developed BDA apartment projects, while the authority is also exploring ways to extend a similar framework to existing housing complexes in a phased manner.
At present, BDA manages essential services such as lift operations, security, garbage disposal, and upkeep of common areas, but lacks a formalised maintenance governance system, leading to inconsistencies in service delivery and fund management.
The upcoming policy seeks to clearly define the maintenance responsibility period of 1–2 years, during which the BDA will handle upkeep before gradually transferring control to Residents’ Welfare Associations (RWAs).
A key focus of the reform is the standardisation of maintenance fee collection methods, with the authority evaluating multiple models including:
- Per-square-foot charges
- Flat-rate systems
- Hybrid pricing structures combining fixed and variable components
Currently, BDA collects approximately 1% of the flat cost as maintenance charges, but officials say this system is under review for potential improvement.
However, the transition is not without challenges. Legal issues related to RWA formation and apartment registrations have slowed down handover processes in several projects. Residents have also expressed concerns over lack of clarity in service responsibilities, fund usage, and fee structures.
Despite these issues, the authority plans to introduce the policy in an interim format with stakeholder consultation, until a broader Apartment Ownership legislation framework is implemented.
Residents have largely welcomed the move, stating that a structured system could improve service quality, accountability, and financial transparency, but they have urged the authority to clearly define rules and ensure proper implementation.
