If you are planning to build a four-floor apartment in Hyderabad, it is important to understand the GHMC guidelines for plot size, floor area, and open space requirements. This article will explain in simple terms how much square yards are needed, the rules you must follow, and how to ensure your project is legally compliant.
We will also answer common questions so you can plan your apartment construction with confidence.
Understanding GHMC Guidelines for Four-Floor Apartments
GHMC (Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation) sets strict rules for constructing multi-storey buildings to ensure safety, proper ventilation, and urban planning. The key factor is the Floor Space Index (FSI), which decides how much you can build on a given plot. For a four-floor apartment, the minimum plot size and FSI play a major role.
Minimum Plot Size for Four-Floor Apartments
GHMC rules state that for a four-floor apartment (G+3 or G+4), the minimum plot size is generally 400 square yards. If your plot is smaller than this, you may need special permission or may not be allowed to build four floors without violating the rules.
- 400 square yards is the standard minimum for four floors.
- Smaller plots (like 200 or 300 square yards) usually allow fewer floors unless you get special approval.
- Always check with GHMC for your specific location, as some areas may have different requirements.
Floor Space Index (FSI) and Buildable Area
FSI is the ratio of the total floor area you can build to the plot area. In Hyderabad, the current FSI for residential areas is 2.0. This means for every square yard of plot, you can build up to 2 square yards of total floor area.
Example Calculation:
- If your plot is 400 square yards, the total buildable area is:
- 400 × 2.0 = 800 square yards.
- For a four-floor apartment, each floor should be:
- 800 ÷ 4 = 200 square yards per floor.
This ensures you are within GHMC limits and can get approval for your building plan.
Open Space and Setback Requirements
GHMC also requires open space around the building for light, ventilation, and safety. For a four-floor apartment, the rules are:
- Front and rear setbacks: At least 3 meters (approx. 3.3 yards) on each side.
- Side setbacks: At least 2 meters (approx. 2.2 yards) on each side.
- Open space: About 10% of the total plot area must be left open and not covered by construction.
For a 400 square yard plot:
- Open space required: 400 × 10% = 40 square yards.
- The rest can be used for building and parking.
Fire Safety Rules for Four-Floor Apartments
Safety is a top priority for multi-storey buildings. GHMC and Fire Department require:
- Overhead water tank with 25,000 litres capacity for firefighting.
- Booster pump with a minimum capacity of 900 litres/minute.
- Fire extinguishers, hose reels, and manual alarms on each floor.
- Two separate staircase exits for emergency evacuation.
- Fire NOC (No Objection Certificate) is mandatory for occupancy certificate.
Other Important GHMC Rules
- Parking: Minimum parking space must be provided as per plot size and number of apartments.
- Height: Each floor should be at least 3 meters (10 feet) high.
- Legal Approvals: Building plan must be approved by GHMC, and all documents must be submitted.
- NOCs: Fire safety, water, and electricity NOCs are mandatory.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Four-Floor Apartment
- Check Plot Size: Ensure your plot is at least 400 square yards.
- Calculate FSI: Multiply plot size by 2.0 to get total buildable area.
- Plan Open Space: Reserve 10% of plot as open space.
- Design Building: Each floor should not exceed the calculated area.
- Submit Plans: Apply for GHMC approval with all required documents.
- Fire Safety: Install all required fire-fighting equipment.
- Get NOCs: Obtain fire, water, and electricity NOCs.
- Start Construction: Only after all approvals are received.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Building more floors than allowed by plot size.
- Not leaving enough open space or violating setback rules.
- Skipping fire safety measures or NOCs.
- Starting construction without GHMC approval.
Benefits of Following GHMC Guidelines
- Legal compliance and smooth approval process.
- Safe and well-ventilated apartments.
- Higher resale value and easier resale.
- Peace of mind knowing your building is safe and legal.
FAQs
How many square yards are required for a four-floor apartment as per GHMC?
A minimum of 400 square yards is required for a four-floor apartment as per GHMC guidelines.
What is FSI and how does it affect my apartment construction?
FSI is the ratio of total floor area to plot area. For residential plots in Hyderabad, FSI is 2.0, meaning you can build twice the plot area.
Can I build a four-floor apartment on a 200 square yard plot?
No, 200 square yards is too small for four floors as per GHMC rules. You need at least 400 square yards.
How much open space is required for a four-floor apartment?
About 10% of the total plot area must be left open for light and ventilation.
What are the fire safety requirements for a four-floor apartment?
You need an overhead water tank, booster pump, fire extinguishers, hose reels, manual alarms, and two separate staircase exits.
Do I need a fire NOC for a four-floor apartment?
Yes, fire NOC is mandatory for occupancy certificate.
What is the minimum height for each floor in an apartment?
Each floor should be at least 3 meters (10 feet) high.
Can I build more than four floors on a 400 square yard plot?
No, four floors is the maximum allowed without special permission.
What documents are required for GHMC building approval?
Approved building plans, property tax receipt, land use certificate, and all NOCs.
How do I calculate the total buildable area for my plot?
Multiply the plot area by FSI (2.0 for residential plots in Hyderabad).
Author Bio:
Karna Raju is a real estate expert and content writer specializing in Hyderabad property trends. For more information on affordable residential plots near IIT Kandi, Hyderabad, visit plotsforsalehyd.in
