Housing Society Dictatorship: Why Do Societies Have More Power Than Owners? (Part 1)
Are Housing Societies Controlling Owners?
Mumbai’s real estate market is booming, but behind the scenes, many housing societies have become mini-dictatorships. Owners, despite legally owning their properties, often find themselves powerless against society committees that dictate terms. But why does this happen?
The Silent Surrender of Property Owners
One of the biggest reasons for this unchecked power is the passive attitude of property owners.
- Fear of Conflict: Many owners prefer to avoid disputes with the society, thinking it’s not worth the trouble.
- High Tenant Demand: If one tenant is rejected, another will come along, so owners don’t bother questioning rejections.
- Lack of Awareness: Many owners don’t know that societies cannot legally reject tenants without valid reasons.
Can a Society Legally Reject a Tenant?
As per the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act, 1960, a society cannot deny NOC (No Objection Certificate) to a tenant without a valid legal reason. However, many societies misuse their power, conducting tenant interviews and making arbitrary decisions.
- “High Credibility Tenants Only” – Many societies claim they accept only high-credibility tenants. But who decides credibility?
- Lack of Transparency – Owners are rarely given written explanations when their tenants are rejected.
- Harassment Tactics – Some societies deliberately delay approvals to discourage renting, even when owners are not required NOC by the society as per law.
How Can Owners Protect Their Rights?
Property owners don’t have to bow down to society committees. Here’s what they can do:
✅ Demand Written Rejections – Ask for a written explanation when a tenant is denied. ✅ Know the Law – Societies cannot reject tenants without a valid legal reason. ✅ Approach the Deputy Registrar – If harassment continues, file a complaint with the Deputy Registrar of Cooperative Housing Societies. (Read more about filing complaints here)
✅ Educate Other Owners – The more owners unite, the less power societies will have to manipulate them.
Real Case: A Society in Andheri West
To highlight how extreme society control has become, here’s an actual tenant biodata form from a reputed society in Andheri West. The requirements listed are beyond legal limits, showing how societies create unnecessary obstacles for tenants and owners alike.
Final Thoughts: Stand Up for Your Rights!
Societies wield power only because owners allow them to. It’s time for property owners to take a stand and ensure that societies follow the law instead of making their own rules.
Have You Faced Housing Society Harassment?
Share your experience in the comments! Let’s bring awareness to this issue.
🔗 Related Read: Top Challenges Faced by Tenants in Mumbai
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