Housing societies are meant to support peaceful community living. But many times, members face unnecessary stress because of unclear rules, especially when it comes to non-occupancy charges —fees charged when the owner is not living in the flat. Across Maharashtra, thousands of people rent out their flats or keep them locked for personal reasons, yet very few know the exact legal limits of these charges. As a result, many societies misuse their power and demand excessive amounts in the name of non-occupancy. 1. What Are Non-Occupancy Charges? (The Basic Definition) Non-occupancy charges are fees taken by a housing society when the owner of a flat or their close family members are not staying in the flat. This applies in situations like: When the flat is rented out to a tenant When the flat is used by someone other than family members When the owner is living elsewhere and someone else is using the property But if the flat is locked and unused , non-occupancy charges...