Maharashtra Rental Society Rules 2026

Maharashtra’s new housing-society rules are mainly directed at societies and owners, but they will also affect the everyday rental experience. Tenants live with the consequences of how a society manages maintenance, common facilities, parking, repairs and communication.

The new rules set clearer principles for society charges. Service charges are to be shared equally between flats, while property tax, insurance and lease rent are to be charged according to carpet area. Water charges may be based on the number of taps, and non-occupancy charges cannot exceed 10% of service charges.

This is useful for tenants because maintenance charges are often passed on through the rental arrangement. A lease should clearly state whether the tenant or landlord will pay monthly maintenance, parking, water and other building charges. The agreement should also clarify who will bear any repair fund or special levy.

The rules require societies to create and maintain funds such as reserve, sinking, repair and maintenance, major repair and election funds. The sinking fund has a minimum annual contribution of 0.25% of construction cost, while the repair and maintenance fund has a minimum annual contribution of 0.75%. These funds can influence the financial health of a building and the quality of common-area upkeep.

The framework also permits video-conference participation in general body meetings. While tenants do not vote as members unless they are owners, better society participation can lead to more transparent decisions on maintenance, repairs and building management.

For landlords, the new regime is a reason to keep society records updated and communicate charges honestly. For tenants, it is a reason to choose buildings where maintenance practices are clear and the society is properly managed.

What tenants should do: Before signing a lease, request a written breakup of rent, maintenance, parking, water and any other recurring society charges.