Mumbai BMC Demolishes Illegal Flat Alterations at Rustomjee Crown
Mumbai, Maharashtra, August 25, 2026: The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has started demolishing unauthorised alterations inside flats at Rustomjee Crown in Prabhadevi, following complaints about illegal modifications, amalgamation of apartments and conversion of common areas into private living spaces.
The civic action could be important for residents and property buyers as it highlights the risks of carrying out structural changes or occupying common areas without the required approvals.
BMC Starts Demolition in Three Flats
The civic body began demolition action on Monday in three flats at the luxury residential development.
A civic team comprising around 15 labourers and 10 staff and officers carried out the operation under police security. Officials said the demolition drive is expected to continue over the next few days.
128 Notices Already Issued
The action follows complaints alleging unauthorised construction and alterations within the residential tower.
In March 2026, BMC informed the complainant that it had issued 128 notices under Section 354A of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act and Section 53(1) of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act in connection with unauthorised work at the property.
The civic body said further action would be taken after following the due legal process.
Common Areas Allegedly Converted Into Living Space
The complaints alleged that some flat owners had enclosed portions of common areas and converted them into habitable spaces.
The allegedly enclosed areas were reported to be around 450 to 800 square feet. The complaint also raised concerns over the amalgamation of flats and alleged misuse of areas that are not counted towards Floor Space Index (FSI).
According to the complaint, the market value of the allegedly enclosed spaces could range between ₹2.25 crore and ₹2.50 crore.
What Property Owners Need to Know
The BMC action is a reminder that homeowners cannot automatically treat common areas, balconies or other building spaces as private property simply because they are connected to their flat.
Before undertaking major alterations, property owners should verify:
- Whether the proposed alteration is legally permitted
- Whether approval from the civic authority is required
- Whether the area is part of common property
- Whether the modification affects the sanctioned building plan
- Whether the alteration changes the approved FSI or building structure
Unauthorised changes can potentially result in notices, penalties and demolition action.
Rustomjee Crown Has Three High-Rise Wings
Rustomjee Crown is located in Mumbai's Prabhadevi area.
According to the complaint, the residential development has two completed wings, A and B, each with 63 floors, while Wing C is under construction and is planned to have 65 floors.
The apartments range from approximately 1,335 to 3,072 square feet and include three- to five-bedroom units.
Why This Matters for Mumbai Homebuyers
For buyers purchasing apartments in high-rise developments, the case underlines the importance of checking not just the flat itself but also the approved layout, sanctioned plans, common areas and alteration history.
A buyer considering a resale property should verify whether previous owners have made unauthorised structural modifications, particularly where additional space has been created by enclosing balconies or common areas.
Grihik Property Takeaway
The Rustomjee Crown action shows that an expensive apartment does not make an unauthorised alteration legal.
For existing owners, obtaining the required approvals before modifying a property can help avoid costly disputes and enforcement action. For homebuyers, checking the sanctioned plan and alteration history should be part of property due diligence before purchasing a resale flat.