Building permission must be displayed at construction sites

High Court directs GHMC to curb unauthorised construction and improve transparency

Property Pulse

The Telangana High Court has directed the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation to ensure that building permissions are clearly displayed at construction sites, strengthening transparency for residents and property buyers. The court also directed authorities to stop construction immediately where valid permissions are absent and to seal violations as required. The directions followed inspections by GHMC in the Siddiamber Bazaar and Begum Bazaar circles and a petition concerning the regularisation of additional floors.

The petitioner, Rajkumar, had sought relief in connection with construction that continued despite notices. GHMC told the court that applications had been rejected because of deficiencies or violations and that show-cause notices had been issued, but construction continued. The case also involved a provision under which plots below 75 square yards can attract a token fee of ₹1, with allegations that a 114.14-square-yard plot was sought to be split among three persons to claim the exemption.

The High Court observed that the site in question was eligible only for G+2 construction and that unauthorised construction followed by an attempt at regularisation does not create a legal right to retain the additional construction. For buyers, the case underlines the importance of checking the approved building plan rather than relying only on a developer’s or seller’s description of the property. The number of sanctioned floors, permitted use, setbacks and any deviations should be compared with the construction on site.

A building permission displayed at the site can provide an immediate reference, but buyers should still verify approvals through the relevant authority and examine the project documents before purchase. Regularisation should not be assumed to be automatic simply because an application has been made. The court’s directions put the emphasis on visible approvals and enforcement, making permission checks an important part of due diligence for both buyers and neighbouring property owners.

PERMISSION CHECK

• Check that the approved building permission is displayed.

• Match sanctioned floors with actual construction.

• Check for deviations from the approved plan.

• Verify whether the plot qualifies for the 75-square-yard provision.

• Do not assume unauthorised floors will be regularised.

• Verify approvals before buying or financing a property.