Chandigarh Housing Board Expands Scope for Need-Based Changes in Independent Houses

 

Chandigarh: The Chandigarh Housing Board (CHB) has approved wider provisions for need-based changes in its independent houses, providing greater flexibility to residents who wish to modify, rebuild or redesign their homes in accordance with current requirements.

The decision, approved by the CHB Board of Directors in September 2026, is expected to benefit nearly 2,500–3,000 independent-house owners. The move allows such houses to be considered under the Chandigarh Building Rules, 2017, broadly on the lines of independent marla houses.

Under the new framework, owners will have greater scope to demolish and reconstruct their houses, make internal alterations and modify the external elevation, subject to the applicable building regulations. The proposal also provides for greater flexibility in permissible covered area, with the board considering a limit of up to 70%, compared with the earlier 50% provision.

The CHB has also approved the installation of lifts in its dwelling units, a move that is expected to benefit residents of CHB flats and independent houses. The broader measures together are expected to have an impact on around 35,000 CHB houses and flats housing more than 1.5 lakh residents.

However, the relaxation does not permit encroachment on government or common land. Construction and alterations will continue to be subject to the prescribed building rules and approval procedures.

The decision is significant for Chandigarh's housing sector as it provides residents with more flexibility to adapt older CHB properties to changing family requirements while keeping modifications within a regulated framework.

By : The Realty Times — Real Estate News, Property Insights & Market Updates