The lack of parking spaces has become a critical concern in metro cities like Mumbai and others. Land is depleting fast due to the infrastructure and real estate development that is continually taking place here. Hence, it barely leaves any open ground for parking automobiles.

However, homebuyers look for residential properties with parking facilities since most of them have their own vehicles nowadays. Stilt parking is a convenient solution in this scenario. In this blog, we explore this unique parking concept in depth. Read on!

Stilt Parking Meaning and Significance

Stilt parking is an intelligent technique that many builders have been using in recent years to create car parking space on a building's ground level. This level is commonly called the stilt floor. In these kinds of structures, sturdy pillars/columns composed of steel or reinforced concrete are erected on the foundation. These pillars, also known as stilts, elevate the main building on a raised platform above the ground.

The stilts provide structural support to the property. The floors built above it are denoted as G+1, G+2, G+3, and beyond, depending on the number of storeys. But at the same time, the stilts also produce a partially enclosed space that can accommodate parking spots for the residents' vehicles.

Since this semi-open parking area is right under the elevated primary structure, it makes judicious use of the available land on the project premises. As a result, developers can utilise the remaining ground space to include gardens, walking areas, playing zones, and amenities like the clubhouse, swimming pool, etc.

Also, unlike underground parking facilities, stilt-level parking does not involve land excavation or major construction. Thus, it is an economical way to provide parking space in real estate projects.

Stilt Floor Features

Height and Space

The stilt level must be high enough to easily fit in different types of cars. The recommended height for the stilt-level parking area is 8 feet (or 2.4 to 3 metres). The minimum size of each individual parking slot is based on the local government's regulations. This gives ample space to house the vehicles comfortably while also giving sufficient room to manoeuvre them as and when required.

Open Layout and Overhead Protection

Stilt floors often have an open layout, leaving them partially exposed from the surrounding sides. It enables good air circulation throughout the parking area and prevents moisture build-up on cars in humid regions. The ceiling offers an overhead cover which protects the parked vehicles from direct sun exposure, dust, rain, hail, etc.

Therefore, a stilt floor offers better natural ventilation than covered parking areas. It also provides better protection to the cars from external weather elements compared to open parking spaces.

Structural Integrity and Aesthetic Appeal

Back when there wasn't much clarity about the stilt floor meaning, there were a few misconceptions regarding its capability to support the building structure. However, with the right architectural plans, advanced construction techniques, and using high-quality materials to erect the stilts, such buildings are completely stable and safe. There are no compromises on their structural integrity whatsoever.

Moreover, this type of construction also looks aesthetically pleasing. It enhances the building's visual appearance. Even the low-rise floors are not too close to the ground in buildings with a stilt parking floor as the base.

Advantages of Stilt Parking

• Optimal space usage

  Densely populated cities have limited available land. Stilt parking facilities help developers make the most out of the land plots they acquire to develop their projects. Since stilt floors are a part of the vertical development, the car parking area is situated inside the building itself. They keep the rest of the complex premises clutter-free, thereby optimising the overall land's utility.

• Adequate protection for vehicles

  The stilt level functions as a semi-enclosed shelter for the parked vehicles. The floor’s open plan keeps it well-ventilated and the automobiles free from humidity-related issues. On the other hand, its covered ceiling shields the vehicles from dust, rain, and hail, among other elements. Additionally, these parking areas often have secure entry/exit points monitored by the building's security personnel. This arrangement keeps the cars safe from thieves and vandals.

• Structurally supports the building

  The stilt level acts as the building's foundation, with robust pillars (stilts) raising the structure on an elevated platform. Made of premium materials, these stilts provide reliable structural support to the building while the floor efficiently doubles up as a parking area.

• Enhances the property's market value

  Dedicated parking is a must-have feature in any real estate property. Stilt parking is a smart strategy to avoid land wastage and create ample car parking space within the building. It also improves the building's aesthetic appeal. Due to these factors, this essential amenity can significantly boost a property's market value.

Stilt Parking Regulations and Rules

1. According to the law, a stilt parking floor in a building must be strictly used for vehicle parking only. It should not be used for storage, commercial purposes, or to accommodate staff quarters.

2. The parking floor should be well-lit, have proper signage, and be fire safety-compliant.

3. Housing societies allot parking slots to flat owners based on specific criteria. It could either be on a 'first come, first served' basis or as per a lucky draw system or any other rules as set by the society.

4. Since parking spaces come under the building's common areas, the developer cannot sell them separately to the flat owners as per the law.

5. Housing societies may establish their own by-laws to ensure fairness and transparency in the parking allocation process. They give certain rights and responsibilities to the residents regarding the parking space usage.

6. In case of any conflicts arising due to unfair distribution or unauthorised use of parking slots, housing societies also have authorities for dispute resolution.

7. A housing society reserves the right to charge fees to the residents for the parking floor's maintenance and upkeep. These fees may vary for different owners based on the parking slot size and whether their vehicle is a four-wheeler or two-wheeler.

Conclusion

Check out K Raheja Realty's blog page for more information about such crucial real estate concepts. Get in touch with us to explore the various lifestyle amenities we offer in our properties!

Disclaimer

The content of this blog is based on information available to the public for general use, and any references/sources if mentioned. While we take care to refer to reliable sources as far as possible, we do not claim any responsibility for the accuracy of the given information whatsoever. The article is to be used for general informational purposes only. Please note that it neither constitutes legal advice nor does it intend to. If any individual(s) take/s any decision based on the information in this article without verifying the genuineness of the facts, we expressly disown/disclaim any potential liability that may result due to the same. We encourage readers to get guidance separately pertaining to any specific information given herein.