If you’ve ever felt uncertain about investing in a property due to delayed projects or hidden builder terms, RERA (Real Estate Regulation and Development Act, 2016) was made to protect buyers like you. It was enacted to bring transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the real estate sector, which had long been unregulated and opaque.
Before RERA, many buyers suffered from project delays, false promises, and lack of information. RERA changed that by creating a framework that regulates builders, promotes transparency in real estate transactions, and ensures that your hard-earned money is protected.
How Does RERA Ensure Transparency in Real Estate Projects?
Transparency is the foundation of RERA. Builders and developers are now legally obligated to register their projects before advertising or selling. This allows buyers to verify every detail of a project.
- Mandatory Registration: Every project exceeding 500 square meters or with more than eight apartments must be registered under RERA.
- Detailed Disclosures: Developers must upload project details—such as layout plans, timeline, and approvals—on the RERA website.
- Regular Updates: Builders must keep the information updated at regular intervals so buyers can track project progress online.
This means you can check whether the project is genuine before making any payments.
What Are the Major Rights of Homebuyers Under RERA?
As a homebuyer, RERA has empowered you with legal rights that safeguard your interests throughout the property transaction process. Let’s look at them one by one.
Right to Information
You are entitled to full details about the project, including the sanctioned plan, stage-wise completion schedule, and specifications of construction materials.
Right to Timely Possession
RERA ensures that developers adhere to the promised timelines. If the builder fails to deliver possession within the stipulated time, you can either:
- Withdraw from the project and get a full refund with interest, or
- Continue with the project and claim compensation for the delay.
Right to Get What Was Promised
If there is any variation in the quality, layout, or features compared to what was mentioned in the agreement, you can demand rectification or compensation.
Right to File a Complaint
You have the right to lodge a complaint with the State RERA Authority if you face any issues regarding the builder’s conduct, project delay, or false promises.
Right to Compensation
In case of any structural defects, delay, or misrepresentation, you can claim compensation as per the provisions of RERA.
What Are Builders Obliged to Do Under RERA?
RERA doesn’t only protect buyers—it also enforces strict rules on developers. These obligations ensure that builders maintain professionalism and integrity.
Key Obligations Include
- Use of Funds: Builders must deposit 70% of the project funds in a separate bank account, ensuring that the money is used only for that specific project.
- Adherence to Project Plan: Developers cannot make changes to the approved plan without the buyer’s consent.
- Timely Completion: Builders must adhere to the promised delivery timeline or face penalties.
- Transparency in Advertising: Developers must not make misleading statements or promises in advertisements or brochures.
How Can You Verify if a Project Is RERA-Registered?
Verifying a project’s RERA status is one of the simplest yet most crucial steps before buying a property.
Steps to Check RERA Registration
- Visit your State RERA website (for example, Maharashtra RERA, Karnataka RERA).
- Click on the “Registered Projects” tab.
- Enter the project or developer name.
- Review the details, including registration number, approval date, and project completion timeline.
If a project is not listed, it is likely unregistered—and investing in such a property is risky and not legally protected.
What Remedies Are Available if a Builder Violates RERA Rules?
RERA provides multiple avenues for you to seek redressal. If a builder fails to comply with commitments, you can take legal action through the RERA Authority or Appellate Tribunal.
Options Available
- File a Complaint with RERA Authority: You can lodge a complaint online detailing the issue and supporting documents.
- Appeal to RERA Tribunal: If you are dissatisfied with the Authority’s decision, you can approach the Appellate Tribunal within 60 days.
- Seek Refunds or Compensation: You can claim interest, refunds, or damages for non-compliance.
Penalties can include heavy fines or imprisonment for developers who repeatedly violate the law.
How Does RERA Differ from Previous Real Estate Laws?
Before RERA, the real estate sector was governed loosely by state-level policies and consumer protection laws, which were insufficient. RERA introduced uniform standards across India.
| Aspect | Earlier (Pre-RERA) | Now (Under RERA) |
| Accountability | Builders operated with minimal accountability. | Every project must be registered and periodically updated. |
| Grievance Redressal | Buyers had limited legal recourse. | RERA ensures faster grievance redressal through a specialized authority. |
| Use of Funds | Developers could divert project funds. | 70% of funds must be used strictly for the specific project. |
This legal structure has significantly increased trust and confidence among homebuyers.
Why Is RERA Important for India’s Real Estate Sector?
RERA is not just about consumer protection—it’s also about restoring faith in India’s real estate market. It brings professionalism to the sector, encourages foreign investment, and ensures fair play between buyers and developers.
- Increased buyer confidence
- Greater accountability among builders
- Reduced property fraud and misinformation
- Improved standardization and timely delivery
As a result, the Indian real estate industry has become more reliable and transparent.
How to File a Complaint Under RERA?
Filing a RERA complaint is a straightforward online process.
Steps to File
- Visit the official RERA website of your state.
- Click on ‘Complaint Registration’ or ‘File a Complaint’.
- Fill in the details, including your name, contact, project details, and the nature of the grievance.
- Upload supporting documents like the agreement or payment receipts.
- Pay a nominal fee and submit the form.
The RERA Authority will then initiate an inquiry and notify the developer for a response.
How Has RERA Benefited Homebuyers in India?
Since its implementation, RERA has empowered thousands of homebuyers to stand up against fraudulent or negligent builders. It has helped ensure timely possession, transparent communication, and fair treatment.
- Buyers now have a platform for quick dispute resolution.
- Refunds and compensations are granted for delayed possession.
- Developers’ reputations now depend on their compliance record.
If you’re planning to buy a property, checking for RERA registration should be your first step.
Take the Next Step Toward Legal Awareness
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, and understanding RERA ensures that you make it confidently and safely. If you’re a law student or professional interested in understanding laws that shape industries like real estate and media, check out the Media and Entertainment Law Course on LawMento.
Use code SAVE10 to grab special discounts today!
