When buying a flat in Chennai, most buyers concentrate on the location, size, and amenities. But one factor that is often overlooked is the floor level. The floor you choose can affect daily comfort, access, cost, and even resale value. So, picking the right floor is just as important as choosing the flat itself.
This article discusses the factors to consider while choosing a floor in Chennai flats. Each factor is broken down for easy understanding, and you can use this guide to make a better decision.
Accessibility for Senior Citizens and Families with Children
If your family includes elderly members or small children, lower floors are generally a better option. Seniors might find it hard to walk long distances or wait for the elevator every day. Children often play and run around, and staying close to the ground reduces safety risks during emergencies.
Things to Consider:
- Emergency exit routes are easier from the ground or first floor.
- If the building has elevator maintenance or power outages, using the stairs will be easier on lower floors.
- Lower floors usually stay cooler than higher ones in Chennai's hot climate.
Privacy and Noise Levels
Privacy and peace are important, especially in flats located on busy roads or inside apartment complexes with common areas. In such cases, higher floors can offer some relief.
Benefits of higher floors:
- Lesser street noise compared to ground or first floors.
- Better privacy from visitors and service staff who usually frequent lower levels.
- Fewer chances of mosquitoes and dust from the street.
If you are someone who works from home or prefers quiet surroundings, a higher floor may be more suitable.
View and Ventilation
Some buyers prefer flats with better views and natural airflow. This is usually found on higher floors, especially if the flat faces open spaces or city skylines.
What to expect:
- Better sunlight in the morning and evening depending on orientation.
- More natural ventilation because of fewer blockages.
- Some buildings offer premium pricing for such floors.
But it is important to check whether tall buildings around your flat block the airflow or view. Also, direct sunlight in summer can make the space warmer.
Safety Factors
In case of fire accidents or earthquakes, floors closer to the ground are easier to evacuate. While modern buildings follow safety rules and come with alarms and sprinklers, the risk during an emergency still increases with height.
Also, ground floors are more vulnerable to break-ins unless there is 24/7 security and fencing.
Safety Checklist:
- Fire escape route availability.
- Building's track record for maintenance and safety.
- Presence of CCTV and security staff.
If safety is your top concern, mid-level floors might offer a balance between security and convenience.
Water Pressure and Utility Supply
In high-rise buildings, water pressure may drop on the upper floors, especially during peak usage times. Even with motor pumps, pressure might not be stable in all buildings.
Power backup systems also take time to reach higher floors during an outage. If your building has limited generator capacity, appliances like refrigerators or washing machines may not function properly.
Before you choose a flat, check the following:
- Whether the building has consistent water pressure on all floors.
- How many lifts are available and their condition.
- How power backup is distributed across floors.
Talking to current residents of the building can give real feedback on these issues.
Resale and Rental Demand
Chennai’s flat buyers and tenants have different preferences based on their lifestyle and needs. Some may like lower floors due to age or health, while others may go for higher floors for the view.
In general, mid-level floors have a wider appeal during resale or while looking for tenants.
Market trends to note:
- Lower floors may appeal more to families.
- Young professionals might prefer higher floors with a better view.
- Ground floors with private garden space may attract senior couples.
So, if you are buying the flat with plans to rent it later or sell in the future, pick a floor that suits a broader group of people.
Heat and Climate Conditions in Chennai
Chennai has a hot and humid climate for most of the year. Flats on higher floors tend to absorb more heat during the day and retain it at night. This can increase air conditioning usage and power bills.
Lower and mid-level floors are slightly better in terms of heat exposure. If the building uses reflective coatings or thermal insulation, the difference will be lesser.
Look for:
- Windows with heat-resistant glass.
- Cross ventilation for airflow.
- Shade from trees or nearby structures.
Do a personal visit during the afternoon to feel the heat levels on different floors.
Pricing and Maintenance Charges
In Chennai flats, builders often price higher floors more than lower ones, especially if the view is good. But this also comes with increased maintenance costs. Lifts, backup generators, and water tanks add to service charges in high-rise buildings.
Money points to think about:
- Higher floors may come with a premium price.
- Check monthly maintenance fees with the builder or association.
- Compare it with the convenience and comfort of lower floors.
If you are budget-conscious, choosing a lower or mid-level floor might be better.
Conclusion
Choosing the right floor while buying a flat in Chennai involves more than personal taste. It affects safety, comfort, cost, and future value. Consider the people living with you, daily routine, climate, and expected usage of utilities before finalizing the floor. Each level has its benefits and challenges. By comparing the factors listed above, you can make a smart decision and pick the right floor from the available Chennai flats.