Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
The Delhi Apartment Ownership Act, 1986, provides for the ownership of an individual apartment in a multi-storied building and of an undivided interest in the common areas and facilities appurtenant to such apartment, making such apartments heritable and transferable.
1: Act Background and Ministry Under Which This Act Is:
The Delhi Apartment Ownership Act, 1986, was enacted to provide for the ownership of an individual apartment in a multi-storied building and of an undivided interest in the common areas and facilities appurtenant to such apartment. This act aimed to make such apartments heritable and transferable, and to address related matters. The act falls under the administrative purview of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, which oversees matters related to urban housing and property rights in India. The ministry plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the housing market.
2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, Number of Sections:
The Delhi Apartment Ownership Act, 1986, was enacted on 23rd December, 1986, and is known as Act No. 58 of 1986. The act is structured into six chapters. It comprises 27 sections, covering various aspects such as definitions, ownership of apartments, deed of apartment and its registration, association of apartment owners, common profits and expenses, and miscellaneous provisions. The act also includes provisions for insurance, dispute resolution, and the power to make rules. The act has been amended over time to reflect changing requirements.
3: Act Governed By:
The Delhi Apartment Ownership Act is governed by the Central Government, which has the power to make rules and regulations under the Act. The act also provides for the establishment of an Association of Apartment Owners to manage the common areas and facilities. The act is governed by the provisions outlined within it, as well as rules and regulations framed by the Central government. It is therefore a combination of central authority with a self-governance mechanism.
4: On Whom It Is Applicable:
The provisions of The Delhi Apartment Ownership Act are applicable to apartment owners, associations of apartment owners, promoters, and all those involved in the management and ownership of multi-storied buildings in Delhi. The act ensures that all actions and activities are in accordance with the regulations outlined, as well as the Act’s mandate and guiding principles. The general public, especially apartment owners, are direct beneficiaries of the Act’s provisions. The act’s focus is to regulate apartment ownership and management.
5: Penalties/Punishments:
The Delhi Apartment Ownership Act does not specifically lay down penalties or punishments for violation of its provisions. However, the act provides for mechanisms to ensure accountability, such as the power of the Association of Apartment Owners to take action against defaulting owners, and the power of the competent authority to enforce the provisions of the act. The act ensures accountability through rules and regulations, emphasizing the proper management of apartments and common areas. This act therefore prioritizes good governance and public welfare.
6: Important Pointers:
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Apartment Ownership: The act provides for the ownership of individual apartments in multi-storied buildings.
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Heritability and Transferability: It makes apartments heritable and transferable, ensuring property rights.
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Deed of Apartment: It mandates the execution and registration of a Deed of Apartment.
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Association of Apartment Owners: It provides for the establishment of an Association of Apartment Owners to manage common areas.
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Common Areas and Facilities: It defines common areas and facilities, outlining their management and maintenance.
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Common Expenses: It regulates the sharing of common expenses among apartment owners.
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Rule-Making Power: It empowers the Central Government to make rules for carrying out the purposes of the act.
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Insurance: It provides for the insurance of the property and the common areas and facilities. The act provides a comprehensive framework for apartment ownership and management.
7: Act Copy: