Maintaining Infrastructure in Real Estate Projects: Developer’s Long-Term Responsibility

In most real estate projects, developers often consider their work complete once the construction is finished and units are sold. However, development doesn’t end with handing over keys—it includes ensuring proper upkeep of infrastructure until it is formally taken over by the concerned authority or housing society.

This blog highlights the long-term responsibilities developers have in maintaining project infrastructure like roads, drains, open spaces, and utilities.

🏗️ Why Maintenance is a Developer’s Responsibility

Until the local authority such as the Municipal Corporation or Housing Society formally takes over, the developer is legally and ethically responsible for maintaining all infrastructure within the project. This includes internal roads, drainage and sewage systems, streetlights, electricity supply infrastructure, parks, open spaces, and amenity plots.

📜 UDCPR Guidelines on Maintenance Responsibility

As per the Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR), the developer cannot transfer maintenance responsibility to the society or local body unless it has been formally accepted. The quality of services such as drainage, road conditions, and open space maintenance must be sustained at acceptable standards. Abandoning any responsibility prior to handover is not permitted under most regional development regulations.

🛠️ Common Areas That Need Ongoing Maintenance

Key areas that require regular upkeep include internal roads to maintain safety and mobility, functional drainage and sewage systems to avoid health hazards, and green spaces to ensure visual appeal and recreational value. Streetlights and electrical systems must also function without interruption to ensure residential comfort and safety.

⚠️ Risks of Ignoring Maintenance

Neglecting these responsibilities can lead to legal penalties, delays in final approvals, rejection of occupancy or completion certificates, and tarnishing of the developer's reputation. It can also trigger formal complaints from residents or future buyers, resulting in unnecessary litigation or government scrutiny.

🧾 Tips for Developers to Manage Maintenance Efficiently

Appointing a facility management agency helps ensure seamless service delivery until the housing society takes over. Developers should create a dedicated maintenance fund or escrow account to handle ongoing expenses. It is equally important to document all assets and systems at the time of handover, with records of performance and service standards.

Establishing internal guidelines or Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tasks such as waste disposal, landscaping, water supply checks, and road cleaning will help maintain uniform quality across the site.

📣 Final Thoughts

A well-maintained project after occupancy builds strong goodwill for future developments and showcases your commitment to quality. Responsible developers understand that their duty doesn’t end with selling property—it continues until a smooth and compliant handover is complete.

If your project functions well for its residents, even after the brochures are gone, it’s a win for your reputation, your business, and the city.