TRAI has expanded its Digital Connectivity Rating framework from a 5-level to a 9-level scale, and now requires visibility into connectivity infrastructure even for under-construction properties. The Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 were released on 13 May 2026, giving buyers a more granular way to compare a property's telecom infrastructure before they commit.
What does the Digital Connectivity Rating actually measure?
It's a framework for rating a property's telecom and digital connectivity infrastructure, conceptually similar to an energy-efficiency label. It's overseen by Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies and covers In-Building Solution (IBS) infrastructure and how well a property's systems integrate with telecom service providers' networks.
What changed with the 2026 amendment?
The rating scale expanded from 5 levels to 9, adding half-star increments. This lets buyers see incremental improvements in connectivity infrastructure and compare properties more precisely than the earlier coarse 5-point scale allowed.
Does this apply to properties still being built?
Yes, and this is one of the more practically significant changes. Since a large share of residential and commercial properties are marketed and sold during construction, the amended framework introduces a phased assessment mechanism, giving prospective buyers visibility into the digital connectivity infrastructure planned for a property, not just what's already built.
Who does the regulation actually apply to?
Property managers seeking a rating or audit, Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies conducting the assessments, IBS providers installing connectivity infrastructure within properties, and telecom service providers integrating their networks with that infrastructure.
Should I check for this rating before buying a property?
It's a reasonable question to raise with a developer or property manager, particularly for commercial space or a large residential purchase where connectivity quality matters for resale value and tenant demand. The framework isn't a blanket mandate for every property, so ask directly whether a specific property has, or plans to obtain, a rating under this system. It's one of several practical checks worth doing before committing token money on a purchase; see our guides on cancelling a property sale agreement and recovering token money and builder delay disputes under RERA vs Consumer Court for what happens when a purchase goes wrong.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
What is TRAI's Digital Connectivity Rating?
A framework under which properties can be rated for the quality of their digital/telecom connectivity infrastructure, similar in concept to an energy-efficiency rating. TRAI released the amended Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 on 13 May 2026.
What changed in the 2026 amendment?
The rating scale expanded from 5 levels to 9, adding half-star increments, giving properties more granular differentiation and letting buyers see incremental improvements in connectivity infrastructure rather than a coarse 5-point scale.
Does this apply to under-construction properties?
Yes, that's one of the amendment's key changes. Since a large proportion of residential and commercial properties are marketed and sold during construction, the framework now includes a phased assessment mechanism so buyers can see the level of digital connectivity infrastructure planned for a property before it's completed.
Who does the regulation apply to?
Property managers seeking a rating or audit for digital connectivity, Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies, In-Building Solution (IBS) providers who install connectivity infrastructure within properties, and telecom service providers integrating their networks with a property's digital communication infrastructure.
Is a digital connectivity rating mandatory for all properties?
The framework is oriented around property managers who seek a rating, rather than an across-the-board mandate for every property in India. If you're evaluating a specific property, ask the developer or manager directly whether it has, or plans to obtain, a digital connectivity rating under this framework.