Odisha’s New Rules Empower Homebuyers with Full Control of Apartment Common Areas

Government Acts to Empower Homebuyers

In a landmark reform aimed at strengthening homebuyers’ rights, Odisha’s Revenue Department has amended registration rules governing real estate projects. The revised regulations mandate the transfer of complete ownership of common areas in apartment complexes to the Association of Allottees or homebuyers’ associations, putting an end to long-standing disputes and builder dominance over shared spaces.

End to Ambiguity Over Common Areas

For years, ownership of common areas such as lobbies, staircases, corridors and recreational facilities remained a grey area, often controlled by builders even after apartments were sold. Despite the enactment of the Odisha Apartment Ownership Act, 2023, procedural hurdles and high costs stalled the registration of these shared spaces, leaving many apartment owners without legal control.

The latest amendment addresses this gap by clearly defining ownership and streamlining the registration process.

Registration Fee Capped at ₹20,000

One of the most significant aspects of the reform is the rationalisation of registration charges. Earlier, exorbitant registration fees for common areas acted as a major deterrent for homebuyers’ associations. Under the new rules, the registration fee for common areas has been capped at a nominal ₹20,000, making the process affordable and accessible.

This step is expected to encourage quicker registrations and remove financial barriers faced by residents.

Check on Builders’ Control

The amended rules are being seen as a decisive step to curb the unchecked control of builders over common facilities. By transferring ownership to residents’ associations, the government aims to prevent exploitation and ensure that homebuyers have full authority over the maintenance, use and management of shared spaces.

A senior Revenue Department official described the move as a victory for transparency and fairness, stating that it reflects the state government’s commitment to safeguarding homebuyers’ interests.

Boost to Real Estate Confidence

With the registration process now simplified, authorities expect a significant reduction in the backlog of pending apartment ownership transfers. The reform is also likely to restore trust among buyers and boost confidence in Odisha’s real estate market.

Homebuyers across the state have welcomed the decision, calling it a long-awaited step towards greater accountability and balance in the housing sector.