The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority has directed builders to hence forth inform flat purchasers to what extent they have received construction permission.

MahaRera tells builders to give flat buyers permission details

The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRera) has directed builders to henceforth inform flat purchasers to what extent they have received construction permissions.

Currently, builders only declare that they have received the “commencement certificate” or the CC for the building without specifying anything further.

For example, the civic authority issues only stage-by-stage permission to the developer. The CC can only be restricted for plinth level or for only the first five floors of a skyscraper.

“The flat buyer is under the impression that the CC is for the entire building. This may not be so in most projects,” said a RERA source.

On Monday, RERA chief Ajoy Mehta’s office issued a circular, stating builders must now specify the details of the CC they have received.

“It is observed that layout approvals although obtained for the entire project, many a times other approvals are obtained in stages, including the commencement certificate up to a plinth/zero FSI/or commencement certificate up to a particular floor level. Flat buyers are unaware of the stage wise approvals. Therefore, it has decided to prescribe a declaration by the promoter (builder) to certify the exact stage of the commencement certificate, so that flat buyers will be aware of the same,’’ said the circular.

Builders will now have to file a declaration form and upload it along with the CC while registering the project.

In another recent order, RERA asked builders to give more clarity to buyers about flat transactions. “To avoid transactions of flats/pIots, it is necessary to provide the information as soon as sale is concluded or booking is made,” it said.

Mehta had earlier also ordered builders to meticulously submit the list of all their flat buyers along with their signatures in a proper format when seeking various permissions. Earlier, they would get away with sketchy details or shoddy paperwork when they registered their projects.

The builder will require the consent of at least 51% of the allottees if he wants extension of the completion date of the project. The consent will now be required with their names, flat numbers and signatures.

The circular has also specified that in case developers want to change the floor plan, design or make any major alterations in the sanctioned plans, they will require the consent of two-third of the people who have booked flats in the project.

Each of them will have to sign with their names and flat numbers on the promoter’s letterhead. The consent application will clearly mention the earlier building plans and the new alterations sought by the developer.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/mumbai-maharera-tells-builders-to-give-flat-buyers-permission-details/articleshow/83347765.cms

With the second Covid wave derailing the real estate industries again this year, many developers in the state have availed one year special extension from RERA, Rajasthan.

350 developers avail RERA’s 1-yr deadline extension offer

With the second Covid wave derailing the real estate industry again this year, many developers in the state have availed the one-year special extension from the Real Estate Regulatory Authority, Rajasthan (RERA-R).

According to a RERA official, over 350 promoters who failed to adhere to self-set deadlines for various reasons, including the pandemic, had applied online and taken extension.

A source said, “On March 9, the authority had allowed the promoters to avail one year special extension on account of pandemic, if they apply online for such extension till March 31, 2021. A special online window was created for this purpose. Following this, more than 350 developers in the state applied for extension after depositing standard fee.”

Last year in May, on the ground of force majeure, extension of 12 months was granted to the real estate projects expiring on or after March 19, 2020, after lockdown was imposed in the state owing to the first wave. Those projects that had lapsed before March 19, 2020 were also allowed the benefit of the extension if the promoter first applies for usual extension and pay extension fee, standard fee and penalty. “As normalcy did not return after last year, majority who sought extension are same developers, who were provided relief last year. Though, there are few defaulters from Bhiwadi who neither completed the project nor applied for extension,” said a source.

Earlier, after witnessing the second wave, the developers associations also demanded an extension from the authority. The developers reasoned, instalments have been deferred by the government for a very long period which has resulted in poor recovery and reduced revenue collection.

Many claimed there is also a cascading effect of the first wave, which has hampered recovery in the real estate sector in the last six months. “The vicious cycle of recession had impacted the economy adversely. This has resulted in reduction in demand, production, employment, income. Many allottees are facing difficulty in making payment of EMI. Also, there is reduction in buying capacity and frequent cancellations,” said a promoter.

Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/350-developers-avail-reras-1-yr-deadline-extension-offer/articleshow/82987679.cms

The real estate sector has faced numerous challenges and RERA has been one of the resorts that brought in significant improvements in the real estate sector.

MahaRERA parts ethical from unethical developers: Rohitashwa Poddar

The real estate sector has faced numerous challenges and RERA has been one of the resorts that brought in significant improvements in the real estate sector. Now, to dilute the impact of the COVID pandemic on the sector, can RERA bring in more efficiency and transparency? Throwing light on this, Rohitashwa Poddar, MD, Poddar Housing and Development Ltd., addressed the National Housing Summit.

He said, ”Poddar Group is not known for real estate, however, we entered the industry to work for the Affordable Housing Scheme of the Government of India. Since the inception, we had followed the best practices but with the formation of MahaRERA made a gigantic difference in making the people understand the right developer.” As a consequence of the formation of MahaRERA platform, businesses have seen a positive rise, he added.

He expressed his gratitude towards MahaRERA saying, “I am thankful to MahaRERA for drawing a clear line between the ethical and non-ethical developers. This has not only helped the customers to buy better but has also been of great help to those who are clean. I hope this continues in the future as well. Also, I hope to see more performance-based matrices to be launched for helping people to buy the best.”

Calling RERA a pro-economy measure, Poddar said that before this came in existence there was a division of trust among the buyers. Therefore, the RERA is neither a pro-customer nor a pro-developer but a pro-economy measure. “It has made the entire system more transparent and accountable. Moreover, it helped in the growth of GDP and it will also help the real estate sector to have a significantly higher percentage of the GDP as we grow forward and become a more developed economy.”

He backed the words of Nayan A Shah, saying, “If we have RERA address the interests of all the stakeholder and hold all stakeholders responsible, I completely agree that we have to have regulatory authorities.” On this note, he requested the RERA authorities to consider the concern raised that is holding each stakeholder responsible. “In affordable housing, we work on very thin margins and delays in getting approvals makes the project costlier for the customer or our project become unviable to the degree that we cannot launch it”, added Poddar as he concludes his address.

Raising a request following the valediction of Rohitashwa Poddar’s address, Nayan A Shah raised a concern to Dr Vijay Satbir Singh that there are two legislations that govern the real estate sector in Maharashtra, Maharashtra Ownership of Flats (MOFA) and MahaRERA. “This causes confusion. We request you to kindly look into it that if MOFA can be scrapped so that there is only one legislation.”

Source: https://egov.eletsonline.com/2021/05/maharera-parts-ethical-from-unethical-developers-rohitashwa-poddar/

Five years after the enactment of the RERA the law much-needed has not only transformed the real estate sector but is also becoming the force it was meant to be.

Five years of RERA have transformed the realty sector

Five years after the enactment of the Real Estate Regulation Act (RERA), the law much-needed has not only transformed the real estate sector but is also becoming the force it was meant to be.

The law, which became a reality in the first week of May 2016, has acted as the biggest catalyst in giving a formal structure to the real estate sector in the country and has allowed the property buyers to get heard and address their concerns and complaints.

RERA has brought in the much required standardization in the industry, it is bringing more trust from all the stakeholders. For example, it has clearly defined what the carpet area means and how to calculate it. It has thus removed ambiguities involved in the measurement of the carpet area and reassuring the trust of the home buyers in the process.

It has also reassured the buyer that the money he/she has invested for the purchase of a home in an under-construction project would be utilized for the completion of that particular project. As per the RERA guidelines, builders must open an escrow account and deposit 70% of the money collected from buyers into it and withdraw money from the account only for buying raw material for that project only.

The provisions of the RERA require the builders to update on regular intervals about the construction status of the projects, which instills confidence among the buyers of property in the projects.

“As we look back at five years and how RERA has performed, I think it has been helpful in establishing mutual trust among the buyers and the builders. It has also brought in a lot of discipline among the builders who now have to give timely updates on construction to the authorities. In a way, RERA certification to any project makes it a branded product,” said Pradeep Aggarwal, founder & chairman, Signature Global Group; chairman, ASSOCHAM, National Council on Real Estate, Housing and Urban Development.

Although RERA became a law after the Bill was passed by both houses of the Parliament and a notification issued by the central government, it was for the states to set up their own RERA Authorities. Some of the states were slow in setting up RERA authorities in the beginning but have now embraced the game-changing law. As many as 30 states/UTs have set up Real Estate Regulatory Authority and 28 of them have set up Real Estate Appellate Tribunal as mandated under the law as of April 2021.

“Property buyers are more inclined to buy RERA registered projects as the judgments and decisions taken by RERA over the years gives them confidence. The authority does not only ensure customers are satisfied but also safeguards builders’ interest. Developers also are at an advantageous position as they can procure project finance relatively easily if the project is registered with RERA,” said Prateek Mittal, executive director, Sushma Group.

Even the number of complaints taken up by the various state authorities has steadily risen over the last five years. Over 65,539 complaints have been solved by RERA across the country. This number was 48,556 until May last year. Some of the states like Uttar Pradesh were slightly slow to set up RERA Authority and take up a complaint of the buyers but now the state has topped in the number of complaints being duly addressed and then disposed-off.

“It is so heartening to note that rera has completed 5 years. It is a milestone initiative of the government that has brought much needed accountability and transparency in real estate. Serious and dedicated developers like us have benefitted from rera. But, the biggest winner has been the buyers who are now getting timely delivery and quality construction all across. I congratulate the Rera authorities on successful completion of 5 years,” said Manoj Gaur, CMD, Gaurs Group and VP – North, CREDAI National.

RERA makes it compulsory for the brokers and property agents also to register with the respective state authorities. Over 50,256 brokers have been registered across the country with various state RERA authorities.

“The brokers often from the most quintessential part of real estate deal, be it in the primary market or secondary market. Their registration under RERA has ensured that all stakeholders of the real estate industry are involved which is a good thing in the long run,” said Ankit Kansal, founder and MD, 360 Realtors.

Solving of complaints at the RERA level has also ensured that fewer cases go to courts, saving a lot of time and money for both buyers as well as builders.

“RERA Authorities are solving bulk of the buyers’ complaints and this ultimately translates to much less pressure on the judicial system, as these cases would have otherwise clogged the courts which are already overburdened,” said Kushagr Ansal, director, Ansal Housing and president, CREDAI – Haryana.

The RERA has brought in much needed accountability and thereby transparency in the real estate sector. This will enable the country’s property market to become a trillion-dollar industry in the coming decade, accounting for over 13 percent of the economy.

Source: https://www.constructionweekonline.in/business/17617-five-years-of-rera-have-transformed-the-realty-sector

Prone positioning is used as a rescue therapy to increase the oxygen level in body when mechanical ventilation or an external source of oxygen is not. Read the blog for more understanding.

“Sanjeevani for Covid Patients” – Step by Step process explained to Do-it-Yourself

Increase Your Oxygen Levels Naturally

The unprecedented spread of Novel coronavirus has caused the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) worldwide. More and more people are suffering from acute oxygen crisis leading to the need for emergency ventilation. However, even after a year into Covid-19, medical oxygen scarcity is still costing lives. Spontaneous breathing is possible without ventilator support. It is known as unassisted spontaneous breathing. But is self-ventilation possible? Yes, an SOS technique, prone positioning helps in self-ventilation when a person suffers from severe breathlessness with dwindling oxygen saturation levels. It allows more oxygen to reach the lungs and reduces the blood’s tension due to an oxygen crisis.

The normal level of oxygen in blood should be 95% partial pressure of oxygen or more.

What is the normal oxygen level in blood?

The normal level of oxygen in blood should be 95% partial pressure of oxygen or more1. Individuals with sleep apnea or chronic lung disease can have normal oxygen levels around 90% partial pressure of oxygen. If your partial pressure reading of oxygen is lower than 95%, you require health care assistance. A pulse oximeter is a device that is used to check the oxygen levels in the body. It is a clip-like device that you can use at home to detect the oxygen levels in your body.

The virus affects the human lungs leaving them incapable of performing the gaseous transport at its maximum potential.

How does Covid-19 affect the oxygen levels in the body?

The working mechanism of the novel coronavirus is still under rigorous research. One of the biggest mysteries related to the virus is that it causes ‘silent hypoxia2.’ It is a condition in which the circulating oxygen levels in the blood decreases, which can irreparably damage vital organs of the body. It can be life-threatening if gone undetected for a long time. The term silent is used because there are no signs of breathlessness or hypoxia in many covid-19 affected individuals. The virus affects the human lungs leaving them incapable of performing the gaseous transport at its maximum potential. The tissues of the lungs get damaged due to the virus, lose oxygen and stop working. They no longer infuse the blood with oxygen. It causes the oxygen levels in the body to drop gradually.

Proning has become a regular part of the treatment protocols for coronavirus. Know what is proning?

What is ‘Proning?’

Proning is a technique in which patients with respiratory distress are placed on their stomach with care and made to breathe. Lying down in your stomach for around 40 minutes can help naturally self-ventilate with an efficiency of up to 80%3. Proning has become a regular part of the treatment protocols for coronavirus. Accessibility of oxygen has become vitally important. The world is striving to meet the needs of medical oxygen. In this kind of situation, we can acclimatize ourselves to self-ventilate in case of emergency. Proning is such a way to naturally self-ventilate yourself.

Why proning is important for a patient?

Why prone a patient?

Prone positioning affects the distribution of air inside the lungs. It affects the enlargement or collapse of alveoli, which allows oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood. It is detrimental to underlying pulmonary function for mechanical ventilation. Proning provides better ventilation to the dorsal lungs threatened by alveolar collapse. It has proven to improve mortality. It creates a distribution of ventilator volumes and pressure throughout the lungs. ARDS causes the accumulation of water in the lower part of the lungs. When you are lying on your back, blood reaches the lower parts of the lungs, but there is a problem in gaseous exchange due to the water deposition. It causes trouble in the oxygenation and removal of carbon dioxide. Reports from the US, China, France, and Italy, which included both case series and retrospective analysis, have proved that Proning can help Covid-associated ARDS. It keeps the alveolar spaces open. In its guidelines for the clinical management of critical covid-19 affected individuals, the Union Health Ministry suggested that in patients with severe ARDS, prone ventilation for more than 12 hours per day is required.

Understand the need for prone position.

What do you need for proning?

Requisites for Proning4 are very basic. All you need is four to five pillows. One pillow has to be placed below the neck, one or two pillows below the chest through the upper thighs, and two pillows below the legs. It would be best to change the lying position every thirty minutes from lying on the belly to laying on each side. Then again, sit up before lying in the supine position again (on your belly).

A step-by-step guide to prone position breathing at home.

A step-by-step guide to personal breathing at home

  • Place one pillow below the neck, one or two pillows below the chest through the upper thighs, and two pillows below the legs.
  • Lay down for 30 minutes to 2 hours on your belly.
  • Lay on your right side for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Sit up and rest for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Again lay on your left side for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
  • Then back to the position – lying on your belly.
In what conditions one must not practice proning?

When should one not practice proning?

One should not practice proning in the following conditions:

  • Pregnancy
  • Deep venous thrombosis
  • Major cardiac conditions
  • Unstable spine, femur, or pelvic fractures
  • Morbid obesity5 Seizure disorders
  • Facial injuries

Things to be kept in mind while proning

There are a few things that you should keep in mind related to proning:

  • Proning should not be done at least for one hour of meals.
  • Do it till it feels tolerable.
  • One can prone up to 16 hours in different cycles.
  • Keep track of injuries and pressure on your body during proning.
  • Adjust pillows to alter pressure areas.
A five-step process to place a patient in the prone position in the case of emergency.

Non-self-pronating patients (in an emergency)

Here is a five-step process to place a patient in the prone position in the case of emergency using a bed and flat sheet, by the family members:

  • Use the flat sheet to pull the patient to one side of the bed.
  • Place the flat sheet around the arm that will pull through as you are turning the patient.
  • Use a second flat sheet on the bed and tuck under the patient, which you can pull when turning the patient.
  • Place a sheet below the patient, turn him/her over, and place him/her in a supine position (on his/her stomach).
  • Straighten the limbs of the patient and let the patient breathe. Try changing the position of the patient every thirty minutes.

Covid patients under home quarantine and facing breathing issues are advised to follow this process of personal breathing. It is used as a rescue therapy to increase the oxygen level in the body when mechanical ventilation or an external source of oxygen is not available. Specialists in the medical system have termed personal breathing as the ‘Sanjeevani’ for covid patients. Prone positioning will be improving your oxygen levels in 40 minutes. This positioning should be practised every 6-8 hours for 40 minutes to extract optimum benefits. If a patient has no secondary infections and only their lungs are affected, proning or prone ventilation can save them.

We are going through unprecedented times. Let’s keep faith in science and yoga. If we mask up properly and take other precautions we hope to sail through this crisis. Keep an oximeter handy. Whenever you find the reading going below the optimum levels, try proning. Advised by doctors and health professionals this technique is surely going to help you in a significant way.

*Note: Consult your doctor for any inconvenience & advice.

Reference links used:

Guidelines regarding COVID-19 Proning for Selfcare by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare – https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/COVID19ProningforSelfcare3.pdf

1. https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/pulseoximeter.html
2. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/11/201119153946.htm
3. https://newsbust.in/if-there-is-difficulty-in-breathing-then-lie-on-your-stomach-for-40-minutes-this-is-a-self-natural-ventilator-if-there-is-difficulty-in-breathing-then-lie-down-on-your-stomach-for-40-minutes-th/
4. https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/health-ministry-advises-proning-for-covid-patients-with-breathing-troubles-101619142731982.html
5. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/acem.14067

Owing to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the state, the UPRERA has deferred the option of physical hearing of complainants.

UP RERA defers physical hearing of cases till April-end

Owing to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in the state, the Uttar Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority has deferred the option of physical hearing of complainants.

It has now proposed to start physical hearing of complaints from May 1, 2021.

“It is to be noted that UP RERA in its 59th meeting on March 19, presided over by its Chairman Rajiv Kumar, had decided to provide the opportunity of physical hearing to parties concerned on their request with effect from May 1, 2021 subject to strict compliance of Covid protocol as applicable,” said a release.

For the time being, the UP RERA will continue to hear cases virtually.

UP RERA has been hearing complaints through virtual mode under the e-courts system in order to maintain social distancing norms amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.

“Further decision about offering the option of physical hearing to parties will be taken in future depending on the situation of the pandemic and directions of Central and state governments in this regard,” said the UP RERA release.

Source: https://www.dailypioneer.com/2021/state-editions/up-rera-defers-physical-hearing-of-cases-till-april-end.html

Indian summers are synonymous with notorious pest problems. This article tells you how to keep your house pest-free in the easiest possible ways.

7 Tips to Keep Your Home Pest-Free This Summer

As soon as the summer sets in with its good vibes and sunshine, we open our homes for the sunrays to naturally disinfect them. Although Indian summer is on the harsher side and often unbearable, we welcome it with open arms. But with the heat descending on the Indian subcontinent, comes the problem of pests infecting our homes. Well, nobody enjoys uninvited guests in their households, right! But even after regularly cleaning your house, you would spot those pesky ants crawling all over your house and termites eagerly damaging your precious wooden furniture pieces. You need to be proactive in solving this issue. Yes, ‘cleanliness’ is the keyword here. Here are some tips listed below to help you keep your home pest-free this summer season:

Bins are a favourite place for pests to live in. Keep your dustbin clean to avoid pest.

1. Keep your dustbins clean

Bins are a favourite place for pests to live in. The dirtier the place is, the more they find it comfortable to live in. Bins are mostly damp and dark areas. This acts as an ideal place for insects and pests to breed. Use a bin with a lid so that the garbage is not open to the atmosphere. Also, make sure that you empty the bin regularly to ensure no pest build-up. Once you empty the bin, Wash it thoroughly under running water. Try and avoid the usage of harsh detergents on a regular basis. Simply deep clean it followed by proper sanitization. Ensure that the bin is properly covered and does not overflow with waste. In case of excess garbage production in your house, use multiple bins. You can also segregate the bins for dry and wet waste which also reduces pest problems as pests tend to attack wet and organic waste more compared to dry waste.

Any cracks and gaps are a perfect location for pests to hide.

2. Seal cracks and holes in the houses

Any cracks and gaps are a perfect location for pests to hide. They will exploit any openings they find in the house; so before summer months arrive in full swing, survey the house once to ensure that your doors, windows, furniture, or walls have no cracks or gaps. Cracks in the bathroom or below the sink are the major sources of moisture intrusion that cause dampness and become hubs of pest infestation.

There are other not-so-hidden entrances for pests too in our house that we often tend to overlook. In many houses, gaps around the door and window frames are not filled properly or sealant has deteriorated. These gaps serve as entry points for pests. So, if you notice any such gaps, fill them immediately with a sealant or an equivalent material.

Keeping the kitchen clean will help you keep the pests away from your house.

3. Keep the kitchen clean

Keeping the kitchen clean will help you keep the pests away from your house. Insects and pests that wander around in the kitchen, or for that matter, in our house are always searching for food. If we cut off this food supply we can solve the problem to a great extent.

We, due to our carelessness often invite this problem by resorting to bad habits like improper disposal of food wastes, not cleaning up spillage then and there, or storing leftovers uncovered. A clean and hygienic kitchen is a bare minimum requirement of a healthy home. So, all we need to do is grow proper kitchen habits.

Stagnant water is a breeding place for pests like mosquitoes. If you have any swimming pool or water tanks or any large water storage places inside the premises of your house, clean them at regular intervals.

4. Don’t allow water to stagnate

Stagnant water is a breeding place for pests like mosquitoes. If you have any swimming pool or water tanks or any large water storage places inside the premises of your house, clean them at regular intervals. Use chlorine to disinfect swimming pools1. Make sure the drains near your house (and also if any inside the house) have a proper flow of wastewater. Clogged drains are perfect for pest breeding. They will also give out a stale odour which is not welcoming at all.

In India, summers are also associated with sudden storms with torrential rainfall in certain areas. These showers lead to the filling up of the plant tubs or buckets kept outside in the open with water. After the rains, ensure that you empty these buckets and tubs totally.

Clean your bathroom with disinfectants regularly as they help to keep the pests away.

5. Keep your bathroom clean

During the summers, one of the most relaxing places you will find in your house is the bathroom. So is the case with pests and insects. This is because it is one of the coolest and most moist places in the house to survive. Having a clean and pest-free bathroom is of the utmost importance for family hygiene. Use a proper exhaust to keep it dry and ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom. Clean your bathroom with disinfectants regularly as they help to keep the pests away.

The garden is another favourite spot for the pests to dwell in. Keep the garden tidy.

6. Keep your garden tidy

The garden is another favourite spot for the pests to dwell in. Keep the grass short. Manage the plant heights by regularly trimming and monitoring the garden. Do not overuse any kind of insecticides or pesticides as they really damage the environment. Do not over-water the plants as that makes the soil particles too loose and the roots also start to decay. In damp soil, undesired insects which are harmful to the plants start to accumulate. Overwatering plants can also aggravate the mosquito problem in your house.

To keep mosquitoes away, you can plant citronella, mint, lemongrass, eucalyptus and geranium saplings in your garden. These plants act as natural mosquito repellents2. The characteristic fragrance of each of these plants effectively repels mosquitoes and other pests in the house.

Keep excess moisture away from home by ensuring proper ventilation and cleaning duct.

7. Keep excess moisture away

It is important that your house is kept dry. Proper ventilation ensures your house remain drier. Keep the windows of your house open for maximum time for the sunlight to enter and breeze to flow in. Sunlight dries the wet areas in the house and naturally disinfects the house. Summers bring us to lock ourselves in a room with the air conditioner on and staying the whole day there with every window and door locked. This is really harmful as it causes pest infestation in the room. Proper ventilation is indispensable for a healthy environment in the house. Also, ensure you clean your air conditioner ducts3 when the AC is used regularly. It is another highly damp place in the house and will serve as a perfect place for pest infestations.

Look out for other damp areas

Finally, as already mentioned earlier, damp places are a breeding ground for the pests in your house. Damp not only attracts numerous insects and pests in your house but also creates an unhealthy and suffocating situation for you to live in. Damp also gives out a stale and suffocating smell in the house. The damp areas should be repaired as soon as detected in the house. You can hire professional service providers for damp problems in your house. They are usually well versed with the process of damp removal, and as it is a long process, you might not yourself be able to deal with it completely and permanently.

Before deciding on where to do the damp treatment in your house, you must first get it checked professionally. You must know the root cause behind the damp.

But you know what? – Before deciding on where to do the damp treatment in your house, you must first get it checked professionally. You must know the root cause behind the damp and the extent of its spread. Only then, the money spent on damp repair will be worth it.

There is nothing more comforting than a clean house to come back to, from all day’s work and rest in. But when pests infest your peaceful abode, this idea becomes a daydream. So, not only during the summers but all the year round you must see to it that your house remains pest-free. In the case of extreme pest infestation problems, you can call pest control services and opt for chemical-based treatments. Pest control service providers customize their services according to the requirements which will be beneficial for you to keep your house pest-free.

Reference links used:
1. https://www.chemicalsafetyfacts.org/chlorine-keeps-pools-safe-summertime-fun/
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325337
3. https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/should-you-have-air-ducts-your-home-cleaned

The Bihar Real Estate Regulatory Authority has taken strong action against three private developers for violating RERA norms.

Bihar RERA penalises Green Vatika Homes, Arunendra Developers & Shiba Welcome

The Bihar Real Estate Regulatory Authority (BRERA) has taken strong action against three private developers for violating RERA norms, an official said on Tuesday.

The action has been taken after more than one dozen home buyers filed written complaints with the BRERA. The official said that the real estate companies — Green Vatika Homes Pvt Ltd, Arunendra Developers Pvt Ltd and Shiba Welcome Pvt Ltd – violated RERA guidelines.

Accordingly, action has been taken against them in the last one week.

“The home buyers have filed complaints against these builders and the violation was found during the hearing. Accordingly, we have frozen the bank accounts of directors of the companies,” the official said.

“Besides, we have also asked them to submit all financial transactions, investments and expenditures of the companies after the particular project launched in Bihar. Till that time, we have stopped them from selling residential units till the next order,” the official said.

Home buyers have filed complaints against Green Vatika Homes, for instance. The company has projects named VIP Residency, Pusp Vatika, Kamal Complex, Urmila Vatika and other projects in Patna and other districts.

“We have paid 80% to 90% of our total cost of the residential flats but our builder has not completed the construction accordingly. We strongly believe that the builder has three to four projects underway and it has invested our money in other projects,” said Ravindra Kumar Sinha, a home buyer.

Bihar RERA has frozen the bank accounts of Pankaj Kumar, Chandan Kumar and Upendra Mandal, directors of Arunendra builders. The regulatory body has also banned the sale of residential units of its projects at Phulwari Sarif, Danapur-1 enclave and other parts of Bihar.

The next hearing on Green Vatika Homes and Arunendra builders is scheduled for April 16.

Similarly, Bihar RERA has frozen the bank accounts of Khalid Rashid and Amina Rashid, the directors of Shiba Welcome builders. RERA has also banned sales of the project Rajeshwar Apartment.

The hearing of Shiba Welcome Builders is scheduled on May 10.

Source: https://realty.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/regulatory/bihar-rera-penalises-green-vatika-homes-arunendra-developers-shiba-welcome/82060175

If you notice that your energy bill has increased, don’t panic. Read the article to know Reasons why your Home Electricity Bill is so High And Tips to reduce Electricity Bill.

11 Reasons why your Home Electricity Bill is so High? And 9 Tips to reduce your Electricity Bill

Nowadays living life without electricity is next to unimaginable, even in small towns & villages in India. From running fans and lights to washing machines, refrigerators and computers, you need power for everything you do.

However, many homeowners at one time or the other have found themselves asking a common question over and over, “why is my electric bill so high?”

There might be several reasons behind a rise in your bill amount, which generally are not taken into account by a majority of people. Let us understand them.

It is economical to turn off the gadgets that you are currently not using to avoid unnecessary power consumption.

1. Not Turning Off Appliances and Other Gadgets When Not In Use

Sometimes you may forget to switch off your TV even when you are not watching, or even the bulbs during the day. Although it may not seem like a big thing, when this becomes a habit, it may increase your power bill. It is economical to turn off the gadgets that you are currently not using to avoid unnecessary power consumption.

No one likes to pay for something that they do not use, so why continue to pay for the electricity that you are not directly using. Devices that stay plugged in all day continue to suck energy, even if they are not in use.

If you have several family members in your house, they should all ensure that they also disconnect their gadgets like computers, phone chargers, etc. from the sockets when not in use. Unplug your devices that are not in use, otherwise, you will continue to have an unusually high electric bill.

Try to use energy efficient appliances to avoid unnecessary power consumption.

2. Not Using Energy-Efficient Appliances

Whether you are buying a new refrigerator, air purifier, TV or AC, make sure it is energy efficient. Such appliances usually come with special labels to signify the same. By paying a little more initially, you can reduce long-term energy costs.

Know the reasons behind geyser energy consumption.

3. Geyser

Your geyser is probably the most energy-consuming appliance in home. The reasons behind this could be:

  • Improper Insulation of pipe
  • the high temperature is being set at geyser
  • It is being unnecessarily on after usage
Refrigerator should be placed at adequate distance from the wall specified by manufacturer for more power efficiency.

4. Refrigerator

Among all your appliances, a refrigerator uses up a huge amount of electricity. So, it should be placed at an adequate distance from the wall specified by the manufacturer for more power efficiency. This can improve the air circulation around it. Also, exposing the refrigerator to direct sunlight can force it to consume more power.

Turning the air conditioning on while the windows are open is one of the reasons leading to high electricity bills.

5. AC is on while the windows are open

Turning the air conditioning on while the windows are open is one of the reasons leading to high electricity bills. Either keep the windows open and the AC off, or vice versa. Do not let expensive cold air go to waste. Make sure you keep your windows closed while the air conditioning is On to lower your next electric bill.

Putting a phone on charging and forgetting about it can spike your electricity bills easily.

6. Overcharging Phones

Putting a phone on charging and forgetting about it can spike your electricity bills easily. Also, overcharging can harm the phone battery. So, be cautious.

Keeping the air filters clean can lower your AC unit’s electricity use by 5 percent to 15 percent.

7. Dirty AC Filters

Whether you have central air conditioning or room air conditioners, keeping the air filters clean can lower your AC unit’s electricity use by 5 percent to 15 percent1. And since cooling your home is a big source of energy consumption, keeping your AC filters clean can help reduce your monthly electric bill costs.

If wire joints are not done properly in the case of high capacity appliances, then it can lead to energy loss causing an increase in electricity bill.

8. Improper Wire Joints

If wire joints are not done properly in the case of high capacity appliances, then it can lead to energy loss causing increase in electricity bill. Additionally, Use Lugs at Electrical system to avoid energy loss.

9. Faulty Appliances

Faulty appliances in your home not only represent a safety hazard but also they could be wasting electricity and that leads to a spike in bills.

If your appliances like washing machines, air conditioners, are faulty / damaged, they will consume more energy than normal. Inside faulty wiring can damage the appliances in the long term, lead to electrical fires or even get electrically charged, which may give you electrical shocks if you come in their direct contact. Faulty appliances in your home not only represent a safety hazard but also they could be wasting electricity and that leads to a spike in bills. And if there is any loose connection in internal wiring, then it will also lead to an increase in energy consumption.

That old refrigerator, the old Television set, or that outdated appliance may need to be serviced or changed with time.

Improper Wire Gauge can cause overheating of wires which will lead to an increase in electricity due to energy loss.

10. Improper Wire Gauge

Improper Wire Gauge can cause overheating of wires which will lead to an increase in electricity due to energy loss.

11. Defective Wiring & other electrical issues

Electrical issues can be any type of electrical leakage, damaged insulation, overheating of wires and other electrical faults.

Defective wiring is one of the reasons why your bill could be increasing. It may be causing your electricity to leak unintentionally. This is why it is important for you to maintain the electrical components of your house; this would include the fixtures, outlets, and wiring in and around your home. Other electrical issues can be any type of electrical leakage, damaged insulation, overheating of wires and other electrical faults. In that case, contact professionals who are experts in finding all electrical issues of your home / property.

9 Tips to save electricity Bill

Six general tips to save electricity bill.

1. Switch off Lights and electrical appliances when you do not use them

This is one of the easiest measures to save electricity and reduce electricity bills. Most of us know this but still do not follow the basic rule.

2. Use Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Use CFL or LED lights that consume less energy as compared to normally used light bulbs. They also give more light. They will cost more but will be a money saver and energy saver in the long run.

3. Use Refrigerator Wisely

A refrigerator consumes too much electricity. Follow few tips:

  • Do not overload the refrigerator.
  • Defrost your refrigerator regularly.
  • Try not to open or close the refrigerator too often to avoid energy consumption.
  • Clean and maintain Refrigerator (both inside & outside).

4. Take Care of few things while using an Air conditioner

  • Ensure proper sealing of doors and windows when operating AC.
  • Clean AC filter every month.
  • Use film / tinted glass on windows.
  • If using the AC for open area like Living Area, then ensure rooms which are not in use are closed.
  • Use the right size of AC depending on various factors.
  • Place AC in a shaded area to avoid effect of Sun rays.

5. Regarding Geyser Usage

Some tips related to usage of geyser to save your electricity:

  • Use the right size of Geyser.
  • Ensure proper insulation of the pipe.
  • Minimize temperature of Geyser.
  • Upgrade to Solar Water heater.

6. Use Sensor

Use sensors for lights in bathroom and other less used areas to avoid more energy consumption.

Shut doors to areas you are not using, and only cool or heat the rooms where you spend the most time.

7. Shut Doors and close Curtains

There are simple things you can do to reduce the costs of heating and cooling without making life uncomfortable.

  • Shut doors to areas you are not using, and only cool or heat the rooms where you spend the most time.
  • In cooler months, make sure your curtains or blinds seal your windows properly.
  • In warmer months, keep your curtains closed during the day. By keeping the sun off your windows with external shadings such as external blinds, your house will remain cooler.
Weatherizing, or sealing air leaks around your home, is a great way to reduce energy loss.

8. Proper insulation of Home

Maintain proper insulation of home by using Bright reflective paint in walls to ensure cool temperature at home. Secondly, use Sun reflective film for windows.

Also, Weatherize your home: Weatherizing, or sealing air leaks around your home, is a great way to reduce energy loss. To prevent these leaks, you should ensure that there are no cracks or openings between the wall and window/door frame.

Try to use high voltage appliance systematically to avoid high energy consumption.

9. Turning on the gadgets wisely

In many households, a common mistake that people commit is they switch on all the devices simultaneously. Try to use high voltage appliance systematically to avoid high energy consumption.

Conclusion

Well, saving an electricity bill entirely depends on your living conditions and living standards. Our objective was to make you aware of the possible reasons behind shooting up of electricity bill and also share general tips to reduce energy consumption.

If you notice that your energy bill has increased, don’t panic. Knowing the reasons and tips, you may be able to make some changes to take more control of your power bill and lower it in future months.

Reference links used:
1. https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/maintaining-your-air-conditioner

Police booked two developers acting on a complaint of a homebuyer who has been duped on the pretext of getting the possession of his booked flat. Read the Rera update for more information.

Developers booked for cheating homebuyer and violating MahaRERA orders

SRA gives project back to developer booked for cheating buyer Vile Parle Police booked two developers acting on a complaint of a homebuyer who has been duped on the pretext of getting the possession of his booked flat. The complainant had given a demand draft of Rs 95 lakh to book the flat, but the developers have not handed over the flat to him. The MahaRERA orders stated that the developers should pay Rs 1 lakh per month for delaying possession. And, they are yet to pay a total of Rs 18 lakh as penalty.

According to the police, the complainant said, in a statement, that he had booked flat 1101 in a Vile Parle building and had paid Rs 95 lakhs as the booking amount. Even after repeated reminders to give the possession of the flat, the developers kept delaying it and the matter ended up in the MahaRERA court. The MahaRERA court had ordered the developers to pay a penalty of Rs 1 lakh to the complainant until the possession is given, which the developers allegedly failed to.

Acting on this information, the complainant approached the police and lodged a complaint of cheating, forgery and common intention against them. After valid points were observed in the complaint letter, a case was lodged against them on April 7 for violating the MahaRERA orders by not paying a total of Rs 18 lakh as penalty, as directed, for not giving the possession of the flat.

Source: https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/mumbai-developers-booked-for-cheating-homebuyer-and-violating-maharera-orders