On May 13, 2026, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) released the ‘Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity (Amendment) Regulations, 2026’, updating India’s framework for evaluating digital connectivity infrastructure in buildings.
The amendments were introduced following implementation feedback on a Consultation Paper, from property developers, telecom service providers, and Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs) for . The revised framework seeks to improve transparency, standardisation, and future-readiness in the digital infrastructure of residential and commercial properties.
A major change is the expansion of the connectivity rating scale from five to nine levels through the introduction of half-star ratings, allowing more granular assessment of infrastructure quality and incremental improvements.
The regulations also introduce a phased assessment mechanism for under-construction projects. Under this system, projects can receive a ‘Designed For’ certificate at the planning stage and an ‘Installation Completed For’ certificateafter digital connectivity infrastructure is installed. This is intended to provide prospective buyers and tenants early visibility into planned telecom readiness.
Additionally, TRAI has enabled an Optional Digital Connectivity Audit, allowing property managers to identify infrastructure gaps and improve preparedness before applying for formal ratings.
The amendments further strengthen governance standards by introducing conflict-of-interest restrictions on DCRAs and aligning the framework with the updated National Building Construction Standards (NBCS), 2026.
Key Regulatory Amendments (May 2026)
Expanded Rating Scale: Nine levels total, incorporating half-star increments (e.g., 3.5 stars) for better consumer comparison.
Phased Assessment: Includes 'Designed For' certificates at the design stage and 'Installation Completed For' certificates upon IBS setup.
Optional Audits: Enables property managers to proactively evaluate and improve infrastructure before applying for formal ratings.
Conflict of Interest Rules: DCRAs are prohibited from assessing properties where another DCRA has provided the digital connectivity infrastructure.
NBCS 2026 Alignment: All references to building codes are now synchronized with the latest National Building Construction Standards (NBCS), 2026.
What is "In-Building Solution (IBS)"?
In-Building Solution (IBS) refers to the specialised telecommunications infrastructure installed within a building to ensure seamless mobile and data connectivity where external signals may be weak. This typically involves a network of small antennas and repeaters distributed across floors and basements. Under the TRAI 2026 Regulations, the installation of IBS is a mandatory milestone for properties moving from the "Design" phase to the "Installation Completed" phase of their digital connectivity rating. It ensures that residents and office workers have high-quality network coverage in every corner of the property.
Policy Relevance
Empowers Consumers: The introduction of half-star ratings and design-stage certificates provides home and office buyers with verified data on digital readiness before they invest.
Encourages Infrastructure Upgrades: The Optional Audit mechanism encourages property managers to "fix before they rate," leading to a general enhancement of the digital landscape in older buildings.
Drives Professional Accountability: Strengthened Code of Conduct for DCRAs ensures that ratings are independent, transparent, and free from commercial conflicts of interest.
Future-Proofs Real Estate: By aligning with NBCS 2026, the regulations ensure that digital connectivity is treated as a core utility, similar to water and electricity, in modern urban planning.
Reduces Digital "Dead Zones": Encouraging early integration of digital connectivity infrastructure (DCI) during construction prevents the need for invasive and costly retrofitting later.
Follow the Full News Here: TRAI releases ‘Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 (3 of 2026)’