Can you install safety grills or enclose a balcony because your neighbour did? Here's what the Bombay High Court says

Bombay High Court directed the Maharashtra government to formulate a policy on alterations flat owners can make without prior municipal permission.

One unauthorised alteration by a neighbour does not legally justify another similar alteration by a resident.

Common alterations like installing safety grills, enclosing balconies, or adding partitions remain unauthorised if done without required approvals.

The court noted that open-to-sky terraces originally constructed by the developer had been unauthoritatively enclosed and must be removed.

The policy aims to bring clarity for apartment owners on minor renovations and reduce disputes with housing societies and municipal authorities.