GuiGuide to Building Regularisation and Compliance in India
Owning a home in India is something to be proud of. But sometimes, it also brings surprises like finding out that part of your building doesn’t have the right approval or that some documents are missing.
If you live abroad or even within India, fixing these problems can feel confusing. Don’t worry this guide explains the building regularisation process in a simple way, so you can protect your home and feel at peace.
What Is Building Regularisation?
Building regularisation means making an unauthorised or unapproved construction legal.
It’s like getting a second chance to correct a past mistake. Once you pay the required fees and complete the process, you get a regularisation certificate proof that your property now follows the law.
For example, in Mumbai, the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) handles this process. They help both people living in India and NRIs (Indians living abroad) make their properties legal.
Why Building Regularisation Is Important
Imagine coming home one day and finding a notice that your house or flat is “unauthorised.” It sounds scary, but it happens often. Sometimes builders don’t follow rules, or small changes like adding a balcony go unapproved.
Building regularisation helps you avoid fines, demolition, or legal trouble.
If you are an NRI, it’s even more important, because handling these issues from another country is hard. Regularising your property keeps it safe, legal, and ready for resale or redevelopment.
For people living in India, a regularisation certificate gives peace of mind. It makes your home more valuable and ensures no one questions its legality later.
Common Problems in Unauthorised Construction
Here are some common mistakes people make:
- Adding an extra floor without approval
- Changing the layout or balcony without permission
- Building on land not meant for housing
These issues can delay redevelopment, reduce property value, or cause legal fights.
For example, imagine your parents added one extra room years ago. When you try to sell the house, the buyer finds out it wasn’t approved that’s when problems start. Getting it regularised early avoids all that stress.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Building Regularisation Process
Let’s break it down into simple steps:
Step 1: Collect All Documents
Start by checking your property papers. You’ll need:
- Sale deed or ownership paper
- Property tax bills
- Approved building plans (and any changes)
- Your ID proof
Step 2: Apply for Regularisation
Go to your city’s municipal office or online portal. Fill in the form and mention what part of your building is unauthorised.
In Mumbai, you can apply through BMC or MMRDA websites.
Step 3: Pay the Fees
Pay the fee and penalty based on the type of change.
For example:
- Small layout change → ₹30,000 to ₹50,000
- Extra floor → ₹1–2 lakh or more
Step 4: Inspection by Officials
An officer will visit your property to make sure it’s safe and follows building rules.
Step 5: Get the Certificate
Once everything is cleared, you’ll get a building regularisation certificate. This proves your property is now legal.
Quick Summary:
- Find what’s unauthorised
- Gather your documents
- Apply online or at the office
- Pay the fee
- Get inspected
- Receive your certificate
Costs and Fees
Regularisation costs depend on your city and how big the violation is.
In Mumbai, minor issues might cost ₹30,000–₹50,000, while bigger ones like an extra floor can cost ₹1–2 lakh or more.
In some states like Telangana, the penalty can be up to 200% of the base rate.
When planning your budget, include:
- Application and penalty fees
- Architect or consultant charges
- Tip: Apply early. Penalties can increase over time.
Myths and Facts
Myth 1: Every illegal building can be regularised.
Fact: Only safe and non-encroached buildings qualify.
Myth 2: Regularisation ignores safety.
Fact: Authorities always check fire and structural safety.
Myth 3: NRIs can’t apply from abroad.
Fact: They can, using Power of Attorney or online portals.
Myth 4: It’s too expensive.
Fact: It’s much cheaper than facing demolition or legal trouble later.
Why the Regularisation Certificate Matters
The regularisation certificate gives you:
- Legal protection
- Higher resale and redevelopment value
- Easier access to home loans and utilities
- Peace of mind
For NRIs, this certificate is especially important. It helps avoid future issues when selling, redeveloping, or inheriting the property.
Before You Apply
Not every construction can be regularised. It might be rejected if:
- The building is on public or reserved land
- It breaks safety or fire laws
- It’s structurally unsafe
Always talk to an expert before applying it saves time, effort, and money.
Tips for NRIs
If you live abroad, managing this process yourself is tough. The best option is to give Power of Attorney to a trusted person or a professional firm in India.
Firms like LawCrust Realty handle everything from preparing papers to getting approvals so you don’t have to travel. They make sure your property stays safe and legal while you’re away.
FAQs
1. What is building regularisation for NRIs?
It’s the process of making your unapproved building legal through BMC or online portals.
2. Can I apply from abroad?
Yes, you can either online or through Power of Attorney.
3. How much does it cost?
It depends on your city and violation usually between 20–50% of the property’s value for that part.
4. What happens if I ignore it?
You might face fines, legal action, or even demolition.
5. Is it the same as an Occupancy Certificate?
No. The Occupancy Certificate says the building is fit to live in. Regularisation legalises unapproved work.
6. Does it help with redevelopment?
Yes. Developers prefer regularised buildings because they are legally clear.
7. Can every violation be regularised?
No. Only minor or safe changes qualify.
Conclusion
Finding out that your property isn’t fully approved can be stressful. But it’s not the end building regularisation gives you a clear and legal way to fix things.
By acting early, following the steps, and getting expert help, you can protect your home, increase its value, and enjoy peace of mind whether you live in India or abroad.
Your home is your comfort zone and with regularisation, it stays that way.
About lawcrust Realty
At LawCrust Realty, we stand apart as a premium and top real estate consulting partner for NRIs across the globe, offering end-to-end solutions in Property Management Services, Property Regularisation, Construction & Redevelopment, and Project Management Consulting. Born out of a legacy in legal and hybrid consulting, we understand the unique challenges NRIs face in protecting and growing their Indian assets – and we bridge them with compliance-driven execution, strategic expertise, and client-first innovation. Whether it is managing NRI-held properties, transforming long-pending assets into legally regularised ones, delivering turnkey redevelopment solutions, or guiding housing societies with independent project management consulting, LawCrust Realty combines authority with accessibility. By choosing us, you do not just solve property challenges from overseas – you future-proof your assets with one of India’s best and most trusted realty partners.
Contact LawCrust Today
- Call Now: +91 8450968472
- Email: inquiry@lawcrustrealty.com
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