I own a shop on a rented premises and want to renovate it. Do I need permission from my landlord or the Calcutta Municipal Corporation? I have to make a false ceiling, change the flooring and fit air conditioners.

Manoj H. on email

You do not need permission from the CMC or your landlord if you do not alter the building plan.

I booked a flat in a complex that was to be completed in December 2005. The contract says the promoter will pay rent if the complex is not completed by June 2006. He has issued a letter saying he has got a completion certificate although the complex is still under construction. There is no electricity connection, for instance. How did the promoter get the certificate? What should we do?

Sanjay Dalmia on email

I am going to buy a second-hand flat of 1,200 sq ft (super built area) from a person who had purchased it from the promoter a year ago. He had shown the measurement of the flat as 900 sq ft (super built) instead of the actual area to save the cost of stamp duty. Should I do the same? If I do, can the promoter claim anything from me for the excess 300 sq ft in the future?

Subhas De on email

What the present owner did was illegal. You should look up the building sanction plan to find out the exact super built area and mention it in the purchase deed.

In Propertt edition dated September 1, 2006, you have said the minimum standard car parking area the promoter must provide is 120 sq ft. I am having problems keeping my car in our parking lot. Who is the right authority to deal with my complaint?

Dr K. Roy, email

The CMC decides the minimum area for parking space in a residential complex. A parking lot may be allotted larger space depending on the position of the pillars. However, if you are having problems, you can move the consumer court.

Send your queries to propertt@abpmail.com or mail them to

Sambit Saha, Business Telegraph, ABP Ltd,
6, Prafulla Sarkar Street, Calcutta — 700001