Tamil Nadu Government to Reduce Maintenance Charges for Small Apartment Complexes
Posted on: 12/Sep/2023 8:59:52 AM
In response to public demand, the Tamil Nadu government has decided to reduce maintenance charges for apartments with fewer than 10 units.
Apartments in Tamil Nadu were previously subject to maintenance charges under the `Common Service` category, which covered amenities such as lifts and motor pumps. These charges were collected through the household section of electricity bills, allowing for 100 units of free electricity and subsidized tariffs for up to 500 units. However, in September 2022, the Electricity Regulatory Commission raised maintenance charges.
For the first time, maintenance charges were introduced for the common service section of apartment complexes. Under this new system, a rate of 8 rupees per unit and a fixed monthly rate of 100 rupees per kilowatt were implemented. This tariff applied to amenities like the drinking water treatment plant, wastewater treatment plant, gymnasium, swimming pool, surveillance cameras, and community halls within the apartment complex. Additionally, the unit fee for the common service section was raised to 8.15 rupees, with a permanent tariff increase of Rs 102 per kilowatt.
These tariff increases have placed a significant burden on residents of apartments with fewer units, causing them considerable difficulties. In response to their demands, the government has decided to adjust the maintenance charges in the household category for apartments with less than 10 units, effectively reducing the tariffs. The government is currently in discussions with the Electricity Board and the Electricity Regulatory Commission, and an official announcement regarding these changes is expected soon.
