How to file complaint against builder under RERA

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Despite the high cost that homebuyers bear to buy their dream home, they also face pressing issues like delayed possession, delay in refund if allotment is cancelled or if the developer doesn’t live up to their promise. With a view to address such issues, the Real Estate Regulation and Development Act (RERA), was set up. Besides helping homebuyers with the right information related to residential projects, RERA also allows them to file complain against errant builders.

According to Supreme Court lawyer Shohit Chaudhary, as per RERA, every builder has to give information about the project, for the purpose of registration. A builder has to get the layout and the map of the project approved. There is a penalty for violating the rules. If the home buyer cancels the booking, the builder cannot deduct more than 10 percent of the booking amount. At the same time, in Uttar Pradesh, compensation is given to the customers for delay in the project. However there’s a nominal fee that homebuyers have to pay to file complaint. In most states, this fee ranges between Rs 1000 and Rs 5000.

Separate website and authority for each state There is a separate RERA for each state. For instance, to file a complaint on any project in Uttar Pradesh, you can do it on UP RERA website. (UP RERA- https://www.up-rera.in/SignUp). Similarly, for projects in Maharashtra, you need to log on to Maharashtra RERA’s site (Maharashtra RERA – https://maharerait.mahaonline.gov.in/).

How to file a complaint To register a complaint, you’ll have to log on to the state’s RERA website. Before you log on, make sure you have information about the registration number of the project, the evidence related to the case, what relief you want, if an interim order has been issued on the case. You will have to mention your email ID and mobile number so that the authority can contact you. Also, you will have to register on the state’s RERA website to be able to file a complaint. On registration, a verification link will be sent on your email ID. If you do not know the registration of the project, you can find it on RERA website.

Redressal Once you file the complaint, the authority will send a notice seeking clarification from the developer or builder regarding the violation. If authority is satisfied with clarification given the builder or promoter comes, the complaint will be cancelled. However, if the authority is not satisfied, the hearing will proceed. The date information regarding the hearing will be notified on your mobile number and e-mail ID. You will also be asked to present relevant documents during the hearing. In the wake of Covid-19 outbreak, many state authorities are virtual hearing the complaints. UP RERA will start in-person hearing from 1 May.