Roads in Housing Society: Design, Rules, Maintenance Guide
Roads in housing society are internal, private roads that connect homes, parking areas, amenities, and entry and exit points. Their condition affects daily comfort, safety, property value, and even the smooth functioning of a community.
Importance of Internal Roads in a Housing Society
Roads in housing societies are internal access roads built within a gated community, apartment complex, or residential layout. These roads are not public streets but common facilities owned and maintained by the society or association.
They connect buildings to gates, parking spaces, gardens, clubhouses, and nearby public roads. From wide main lanes to narrow internal paths, these roads quietly support every daily activity inside the society.
Why Roads in Housing Society Matter?
Many residents notice society’s roads only when there is a problem. But when these roads in housing society are well-maintained, they will influence the everyday life of the people in the society in several ways:
- Smooth movement for residents, visitors, and emergency vehicles
- Safer walking and cycling for children and senior citizens
- Better access to schools, hospitals, and delivery services
- Higher property value and better first impressions
- Reduced vehicle damage and fuel wastage
Poor roads create dust, noise, waterlogging, and frequent repair complaints, which slowly affect community harmony.
Types of Roads in a Housing Society
Most societies have more than one type of internal road. These usually include:
- Main internal roads: Wider roads connecting the main gate to buildings
- Secondary lanes: Roads branching out to individual blocks or villas
- Service lanes: Used for garbage collection, maintenance, and utilities
- Pedestrian pathways: Smaller paths alongside vehicle roads
Each type serves a different purpose, so they need regular care.
Materials Used for Roads in Housing Society
Choosing the right road material plays a major role in long-term maintenance and comfort.
Concrete roads
Concrete roads are increasingly preferred for roads in housing societies due to their durability.
- They have a lifespan of 30 to 40 years
- Their maintenance needs are usually lower
- They have better resistance to heavy vehicles and monsoons
- They increase the fuel efficiency up to 15–20%
The initial cost is higher, and repairs can be more complex if cracks develop, but the long-term value is strong.
Asphalt or bitumen roads
Asphalt roads are common in older or budget-focused societies.
- Lower initial construction cost
- Faster installation
- Better grip during rain
However, they usually last 8–10 years and require frequent resurfacing. Potholes and surface damage are common, especially during the Indian monsoons.
Design and Planning of Roads in Housing Society
Good design makes roads in housing society safer and easier to manage. Their key planning elements include:
- One-way systems: Reduce congestion and improve visibility
- Speed breakers: Placed near turns, play areas, and building entries
- Clear signage: Entry, exit, speed limits, and parking rules
- Drainage planning: Prevents waterlogging and surface damage
- Lighting: Improves night safety and security
Even simple planning decisions can reduce accidents and resident complaints.
Width Requirements for Roads in Housing Society
Road width is a mandatory planning requirement; it must strictly adhere to safety standards and fire access regulations applicable in India.
Typical guidelines include:
- Roads up to 150 metres long: minimum 7.5 metres wide
- Roads between 150–300 metres: minimum 9.0 metres wide
- Roads above 300 metres: minimum 10.5 metres wide
For fire safety:
- Buildings below 15 metres require approach roads of at least 3.6 metres
- High-rise buildings often require a front road width of 9.0 metres
These standards ensure emergency access and smoother internal movement.
Common Issues With Roads in Housing Society
Despite planning, many societies face recurring road-related problems.
Potholes and surface damage
Heavy vehicles, poor drainage, and delayed repairs cause cracks and potholes. Timely patchwork and resurfacing prevent bigger expenses later.
Traffic and outside vehicles
Unrestricted entry of external vehicles increases congestion and security risks. Sticker systems, guards, and access control help manage this.
Read also: Guide on Traffic Calming Methods in Residential Area
Maintenance costs
Road repairs are funded through common area maintenance charges. Clear communication and budgeting help avoid disputes and delays.
Management and Maintenance Responsibility
The society management committee or apartment association is legally responsible for maintaining roads in housing societies, as they are common areas.
Important points to note:
- Repairs cannot be avoided due to internal disputes
- Funds come from collective maintenance contributions
- Unsafe road conditions can be raised in a Special General Body Meeting
- Serious negligence can be reported to the Registrar of Cooperative Societies
Regular inspections and planned maintenance reduce sudden repair costs.
Legal Rights Related to Roads in Housing Society
Understanding legal aspects helps avoid conflicts.
- If internal roads are handed over to the municipality, they become public roads
- Societies cannot block legally granted access routes mentioned in sale deeds
- Easement rights allow neighbouring properties access through society roads in specific cases
- Redevelopment and TDR benefits depend on minimum road width rules
Clear documentation protects both residents and the association.
Society Management with NoBrokerHood
NoBrokerHood helps housing societies manage common facilities efficiently through a single digital platform. Managing committees can plan maintenance activities, track expenses transparently, and generate maintenance bills on time, ensuring smoother financial management and fewer delays.
Residents can raise issues directly through the app, while committees can coordinate vendors, monitor service timelines, and share important notices in one place. This reduces manual effort, improves communication, and enables more organised, hassle-free day-to-day society management.
All Solutions by NoBrokerHood:
FAQs
The managing committee or apartment association is responsible, as internal roads are common areas. Maintenance costs are covered through regular society charges paid by residents.
Concrete is preferred for long-term use due to its durability and lower maintenance. Asphalt is cheaper initially but needs frequent repairs, especially during monsoons.
Yes, if the roads are private and not handed over to the municipality. Security checks, access control, and vehicle stickers are commonly used.
Minor repairs should be done immediately when damage appears. Major resurfacing depends on material, usage, and weather, usually every 8–10 years for asphalt.
Yes, well-maintained roads improve accessibility, safety, and overall appeal, which positively impacts resale and rental value.