Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has amended its digital connectivity rating framework for properties, introducing additional half-star rating levels and allowing under-construction buildings to apply for connectivity assessments in a phased manner.
The amended ‘Rating of Properties for Digital Connectivity Regulations, 2026’, notified on Thursday, seek to address implementation-related issues flagged by stakeholders since the framework was introduced in 2024.
Under the revised framework, the existing five-star rating structure has been expanded to nine levels through the introduction of half-star ratings. TRAI said the move would enable better differentiation among properties and provide consumers with a clearer assessment of digital connectivity infrastructure and service quality.
The regulator has also introduced a phased assessment mechanism for under-construction residential and commercial properties. Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies (DCRAs) will assess approved infrastructure designs and issue a “Designed For” certificate at the planning stage, followed by an “Installation Completed For” certificate after infrastructure deployment. A final rating will be awarded once telecom services become operational.
According to TRAI, the changes are aimed at improving transparency during the construction phase and encouraging developers to integrate digital connectivity infrastructure at an early stage.
Additionally, the regulator has introduced an optional Digital Connectivity Audit mechanism for existing properties, allowing property managers to engage a registered DCRA to assess existing digital connectivity infrastructure and identify gaps before applying for formal ratings.
In another amendment, TRAI strengthened the code of conduct for DCRAs to enhance transparency and independence in assessments. It clarified that any DCRA involved in providing Digital Connectivity Infrastructure (DCI) cannot assess properties where another DCRA has provided the infrastructure.
The regulations also align references with the newly issued National Building Construction Standards (NBCS), 2026, replacing references to the earlier National Building Code (NBC), 2016.
According to TRAI, the amended regulations will apply to property managers, Digital Connectivity Rating Agencies, In-Building Solution providers and telecom service providers integrating networks with digital connectivity infrastructure in properties.
The revised Rating Manual incorporating the amendments will also be published on the TRAI website.
The regulations came into effect from May 13.
