Navigating BMC Section 353B: The 2026 Compliance Guide for Societies
Building Safety Is a Legal Mandate in Mumbai
Under Section 353B of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (MMC Act), housing societies whose buildings are over 30 years old must conduct structural audits every 3 years (and every 5 years for buildings aged 15-30 years). Ignoring municipal audit notices can result in severe legal penalties and water supply disconnection under Section 354.
The Step-by-Step Compliance Roadmap:
- Appointment: Pass a resolution in your AGM to hire a BMC-registered structural engineering partner.
- Audit & Testing: Complete visual inspection and NDT testing to grade the building from C-1 (Dangerous) to C-3 (Safe).
- Proforma 'B' Submission: Ensure your auditor officially files Proforma 'B' with your local ward office.
Urban Civil Services bridges the gap between engineering compliance and flawless execution, handling everything from initial auditing to executing required C-2 repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The BMC can issue prosecution notices to managing committee members, levy heavy penalties, and order utility disconnections.
Proforma B is the official statutory form submitted by a registered structural engineer to the BMC ward office detailing the structural health category of the building.
Yes, we handle end-to-end liaisoning, structural auditing, and execution to clear ward office notices successfully.
Buildings are categorized into C-1 (Immediate demolition/evacuation), C-2A (Major structural repairs with vacation), C-2B (Major repairs without vacation), and C-3 (Minor repairs).
Yes, structural audit and mandatory repair expenses are standard capital expenditures approved through society general body meetings.
