Purchasing a high-rise apartment in India is a significant investment, often involving years of planning and anticipation. Understanding the typical construction timeline and key project milestones can help buyers set realistic expectations and navigate the journey from booking to possession. This guide outlines the standard phases in the delivery of high-rise apartments in India, providing insights into each stage of the process.
1. Pre-Construction Phase (0–6 Months)
Activities:
- Land Acquisition and Approvals: Securing the land title and obtaining necessary approvals from local authorities.
- Design and Planning: Engaging architects and engineers to finalize building designs and layouts.
- RERA Registration: Registering the project under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
- Financing: Securing funding through loans or investor contributions.
Key Milestones:
- Obtaining all legal and regulatory approvals.
- Finalizing architectural and structural designs.
- Commencement of construction activities.
Example: In the NCR region, the average completion time for small projects was 4.7 years, with large projects averaging 5.4 years .
2. Foundation and Substructure Work (6–12 Months)
Activities:
- Excavation: Digging the site to the required depth for foundations.
- Piling: Installing deep foundations to support the building’s load.
- Basement Construction: Building underground levels for parking and utilities.
Key Milestones:
- Completion of excavation and piling work.
- Construction of basement levels.
- Completion of foundation work.
Example: The Ramabai Nagar slum redevelopment project in Mumbai, which includes 11 residential towers, is expected to be completed within three years of land handover .
3. Superstructure Construction (12–24 Months)
Activities:
- Column and Slab Work: Constructing the building’s frame using reinforced concrete.
- Flooring: Laying floors for each level.
- Core Construction: Building the central core that houses elevators and staircases.
Key Milestones:
- Completion of structural framework up to the desired height.
- Installation of core elements.
- Completion of floor slabs.
Example: The Palais Royale project in Mumbai, a supertall residential skyscraper, topped out in 2018, with completion expected by December 2025 .
4. MEP Installation and Interior Works (24–36 Months)
Activities:
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Systems: Installing HVAC, electrical wiring, and plumbing systems.
- Interior Finishing: Plastering, painting, and flooring of individual units.
- Facade Work: Installing external cladding and glazing.
Key Milestones:
- Completion of MEP installations.
- Completion of interior finishing works.
- Completion of facade installation.
Example: The Cordial Rise project in Trivandrum was completed three months ahead of schedule, with the key handing-over ceremony taking place in January 2025 .
5. External Works and Amenities (36–42 Months)
Activities:
- Landscaping: Developing green spaces and gardens.
- Roads and Pathways: Constructing internal roads and walkways.
- Amenities: Building facilities like gyms, swimming pools, and community halls.
Key Milestones:
- Completion of external works.
- Completion of amenities.
- Final inspection by authorities.
Example: The Bonus Capital Heights project in Patna, which includes 10 high-rise towers, is expected to be completed by January 2030 .
6. Handover and Possession (42–48 Months)
Activities:
- Final Inspections: Conducting quality checks and obtaining occupancy certificates.
- Documentation: Completing legal formalities and transferring ownership.
- Possession: Handing over keys to buyers.
Key Milestones:
- Issuance of occupancy certificates.
- Completion of legal formalities.
- Handover of possession to buyers.
Example: The Atal Apartments project in Ludhiana, which began in December 2024, is scheduled for completion by October 2026 .
Conclusion
Understanding the typical timeline for high-rise apartment delivery in India can help buyers set realistic expectations and plan accordingly. While the average completion time ranges from 3 to 5 years, depending on the project’s scale and location, it’s essential to stay informed about each phase’s progress. Regular communication with developers and monitoring project milestones can ensure a smooth transition from booking to possession.
Source : fulinspace.com