NewKerala.com

TRAI Proposes Half-Star Ratings for Building Digital Connectivity

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has released a consultation paper to refine its property digital connectivity rating framework. It proposes expanding the five-star scale to nine levels by introducing half-star increments for better performance differentiation. The new framework aims to promote stakeholder collaboration while ensuring transparency and accountability. TRAI also suggested a design-stage assessment for under-construction properties and an optional audit mechanism.

Key Points: TRAI Seeks Feedback on Digital Connectivity Property Ratings

  • Proposes nine-level rating scale with half-stars
  • Aims to improve transparency for consumers
  • Introduces design-stage assessment for new properties
  • Enables optional digital connectivity audits
2 min read

TRAI seeks feedback on ratings of properties based on digital connectivity

TRAI proposes refining property digital connectivity ratings with half-star levels and a design-stage assessment mechanism for better transparency.

"promote collaboration among Property Managers, Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs), Service providers, and other stakeholders - TRAI statement"

Mumbai, Feb 27

The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India on Friday released a consultation paper on 'Review of the Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations 2024,' proposing to refine the rating scale by introducing additional half-star levels.

As a significant proportion of data consumption occurs inside buildings especially after the deployment of advanced mobile technologies such as 4G and 5G, making in-building digital connectivity a critical determinant of User Experience and Quality of Service (QoS).

The new framework on rating properties based on digital connectivity aims to "promote collaboration among Property Managers, Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs), Service providers, and other stakeholders, while ensuring transparency, accountability, and self-sustainability," an official statement said.

To better differentiate performance, TRAI proposed expanding the existing five‑star scale to nine levels by introducing half‑star increments.

These refinements are aimed at improving transparency for consumers, addressing practical issues faced by Property Managers and DCRAs during implementation, and ensuring that the framework remains aligned with on-ground realities, without altering its core intent, principles, or assessment methodology.

TRAI had notified the 'Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2024 on October 25, 2024 for rating of properties based on their digital connectivity readiness. Further, the Rating Manual to operationalise them was issued in 2025.

The consultation paper proposed a design‑stage assessment and certification mechanism for under‑construction properties, which would allow early evaluation while preserving final ratings until completion, the statement said.

The final Digital Connectivity Rating shall continue to be awarded only after completion of construction and 'Due Diligence Stage-II', thereby preserving assessment integrity, it added.

Further, TRAI proposed to enable Optional Digital Connectivity Audit mechanism, whereby property managers may engage a registered DCRA to undertake a digital connectivity audit against the prescribed criteria and sub-criteria for evaluation and improvement purposes.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rahul R
Half-star increments? Seems like unnecessary complication. Will this just lead to builders paying for a better rating? The intent is good, but TRAI must ensure the process is completely transparent and not just another certificate to be bought. The audit mechanism needs strong oversight.
A
Aman W
Good move. In my society, we have terrible signal in the basement parking and lifts. If builders know their property rating depends on this, they will be forced to install proper infrastructure during construction itself. Jio and Airtel can't fix everything if the building isn't designed for it.
S
Sarah B
The design-stage assessment for under-construction properties is a smart idea. It will prevent costly retrofitting later. Hope this becomes a standard checklist for all new projects, just like fire safety norms. Will definitely check this rating before booking my next flat!
K
Karthik V
Finally! My office is in a glass building and the network is always patchy. A mandatory digital connectivity audit should be part of the occupancy certificate. In today's world, digital connectivity is as essential as water and electricity. TRAI is thinking in the right direction.
N
Nisha Z
I appreciate the focus on transparency. But my worry is about older buildings. Will there be any support or scheme to help existing housing societies improve their rating? We can't all move to new constructions. The framework should have a path for upgradation.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50