A cooperative housing society is a residential structure or building comprising a membership-based legal entity. Buying a share in the housing cooperative qualifies you to become a member. As a member, you receive the right to live in an accommodation within the society, including an apartment or a house. However, becoming a member of a cooperative housing society is not enough. You must have a thorough understanding of the housing society’s rules and regulations. This blog covers the essential responsibilities of living in a housing society and entails the cooperative society rules, which will help you understand the fundamentals of appropriate behaviour.
Table of contents
What is a Cooperative Housing Society?
A cooperative housing society is a community owned by its members and registered with the government. Members agree on common rules to form and operate the society. Purchasing a stake in a housing cooperative allows you to join as a member. In return, you receive the right to live in a housing unit, an apartment or a house.
Cooperative Housing Society Rules and Regulations
Housing society rules and regulations act as a roadmap for residents living within a housing complex. These guidelines foster a peaceful, harmonious, and well-maintained environment for everyone. Let’s understand some of the cooperative society rules in detail:
Parking Rules
Residents should utilise their designated parking spaces as assigned by society. Parking outside assigned areas is prohibited. Additionally, bicycles, children’s scooters, and other similar items must be stored appropriately and not left haphazardly within the society’s premises or common areas without prior approval.
Avoid Nuisance
Be careful of noise levels to ensure a peaceful environment for all residents. This includes avoiding loud parties during late hours and adhering to designated playground usage times to minimise disruptive noise.
Pet Rules
Pet ownership requires prior approval from the managing committee. The society will set clear rules for pet care based on standard byelaws or decisions made by the general body. These rules will cover training pets to prevent problems and ensuring regular cleaning to keep common areas hygienic.
Key Responsibilities of Society Residents
As a resident of a cooperative housing society, you must also heed the society’s rules and regulations. This detailed guide will help you better understand the cooperative society’s rules and responsibilities.
Maintenance
Residents are responsible for maintaining cleanliness in their flats and surrounding areas for a comfortable and healthy living environment. This includes following hygiene practices in common areas like hallways, parking lots, and gardens. Don’t throw litter from balconies or windows to ensure a pleasant space for everyone.
Seeking Permission for Structure Alteration
Residents must submit an application to the housing secretary for any changes in the house’s structure. The letter must include all the information about the plans and alteration process.
On-time Payment
Members must pay all dues required by the society regularly, including maintenance fees.
Attend Meetings
While the byelaws require members to attend at least one general meeting every five years, staying informed is even more beneficial. Residents must regularly check notice boards for upcoming meetings. Participation in annual and special general body meetings helps residents to stay informed about the society’s activities and contribute to its well-being.
Stick to Byelaws
All residents are required to familiarise themselves with the society’s governing regulations. Strict adherence to the provisions outlined in the model byelaws is expected. Members are strongly encouraged to obtain a copy of these byelaws from the society secretary for their reference.
Permit Inspection
Following prior written notification to the member, the society secretary shall inspect the member’s flat or home to assess the property’s condition and identify any necessary repairs. Members are obligated to allow such inspections by scheduling a mutually convenient time with the secretary.
Be Ready for Repairs
After inspecting the member’s residence, the society secretary may recommend necessary repairs or renovations. These repairs or renovations shall be the member’s responsibility and must be completed at their own expense. The society architect will help residents ensure the work is done well. If a resident does not complete the recommended repairs or renovations within a reasonable time after being notified in writing, the society can do the work and charge the resident for the costs.
Storage of Unsafe or Hazardous Products
Residents should not possess dangerous or combustible items without the society’s prior consent or a permit from an appropriate authority.
Avoid Illegal or Criminal Activity
Residents are prohibited from engaging in criminal or unlawful activity on society property or in their homes. Participating in these activities is against societal rules and can have serious legal consequences for the member(s) proven guilty.
Preserve Neighbours’ Privacy
Residents should not be seen interfering in their neighbours’ personal affairs unless they are asked for advice. Engaging in actions like going through people’s emails, starting rumours, or fabricating unpleasant situations is unacceptable.
Establish a Good Rapport
A strong and successful community thrives on positive relationships between residents. This means fostering a spirit of friendliness and cooperation and offering assistance when needed.
Report Violations
Residents who witness potential violations of society rules, such as suspicious activity, criminal behaviour, financial wrongdoing, or misuse of the premises, must report these concerns. Any other misconduct outlined in the society’s byelaws should be promptly reported to the managing committee.
Keep Track of Documents and Records
Residents are responsible for keeping all important documents related to their membership in society safe and secure. These documents include agreements, share certificates, and other official paperwork signed between them and the society.
Utilising the Property for Private Business
Residents may use their flat for business activities, such as yoga classes, tutoring services, or childcare, provided they comply with society’s byelaws. However, any additional regulations established by the general body meeting must also be followed. Furthermore, the residents must ensure their business does not create any disruption or inconvenience for other residents.
Conclusion
Housing society’s rules and regulations serve as the bedrock for a peaceful community. These resident-crafted guidelines, built upon the Cooperative Societies Act, foster responsible behaviour, guarantee equitable access to shared resources, and prioritise safety. By following these rules, residents collectively create a more respectful, harmonious, and ultimately more valuable living environment for all.
FAQ’s about Cooperative Housing Society Rules
Q1. What are the rights of a cooperative society?
While a cooperative society’s exact rights can differ based on location and its governing documents, some core rights are universally important. These include the right to establish and operate, self-governance by its members, and potential tax advantages.
Q2. Who controls a cooperative society?
Cooperative society control comes under its members. Unlike traditional businesses, power doesn’t lie with a single person or external entity but with the members themselves.
Q3. Can a cooperative society give a loan?
Yes, under certain circumstances, a cooperative society can give loans to its members. Loan issuance by cooperative societies can vary depending on the type of society and its location.
Q4. Is auditing compulsory for cooperative housing societies?
Yes, auditing is crucial for ensuring the financial health and responsible management of cooperative housing societies.
