Residents of a housing society in Bengaluru have alleged that they are being denied access to basic amenities such as the gym and swimming pool despite paying regular maintenance fees. According to a post on social media, the society management is not even allowing a one-time payment for amenities; instead, residents must pay a daily guest fee to use them. The user wrote, 'They are not even allowing a one-time payment... We have to pay like a guest per day if we want to use the amenities. The worst part is they are taking maintenance from us.'
Unfair Restrictions on Tenants
The complaint, which has gone viral, highlights the growing frustration among tenants who feel they are being unfairly treated. Many residents claim that while owners have unrestricted access, tenants are required to pay extra charges for facilities that are supposed to be covered by maintenance fees. This practice has sparked a debate on tenant rights and the role of housing societies in Bengaluru.
Management's Stance
When contacted, the society management defended the policy, stating that the additional charges are meant to cover the cost of maintaining amenities for a larger number of users. However, residents argue that this is discriminatory and violates the terms of their rental agreements. Legal experts suggest that such practices may be challenged under consumer protection laws.
Growing Trend of Disputes
This incident is not isolated. Similar disputes have been reported across the city, with tenants often complaining about being treated as second-class citizens. The Bengaluru Apartment Federation has urged societies to adopt uniform policies for all residents, regardless of ownership status. Meanwhile, the state government is considering amendments to the Karnataka Apartment Ownership Act to address such grievances.
As the debate continues, residents are calling for greater transparency and fairness in the management of housing societies. They demand that maintenance fees should guarantee equal access to amenities for all paying members, without additional charges.
