Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, commonly known as RERA, was implemented to protect the interests of homebuyers and to regulate the real estate sector in India. If a homebuyer has a complaint against a builder under RERA, they can file a complaint online on the RERA portal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to file a complaint against a builder under RERA online:
- Visit the RERA Portal: The first step is to visit the RERA portal of the state where the property is located. Each state has a separate RERA portal.
- Register on the Portal: To file a complaint, you must first register on the RERA portal. You will need to provide personal details, such as your name, address, and contact details, and create a username and password.
- Fill in the Complaint Form: Once you have registered on the RERA portal, you can fill in the complaint form. The form will require details such as the name and address of the complainant and the respondent, the details of the project, the nature of the complaint, and the relief sought.
- Upload Supporting Documents: The next step is to upload supporting documents that support your complaint. These documents may include the agreement of sale, receipts of payments made, correspondence with the builder, and other relevant documents.
- Submit the Complaint: Once you have filled in the complaint form and uploaded the supporting documents, you can submit the complaint on the RERA portal.
- Track the Status of the Complaint: After submitting the complaint, you can track the status of the complaint online. The RERA authorities will investigate the complaint and take necessary action against the builder if the complaint is found to be genuine.
It is worth noting that before filing a complaint against a builder under RERA, the homebuyer should first try to resolve the issue with the builder through negotiation or other means. In case the dispute cannot be resolved mutually, the homebuyer can proceed with filing a complaint on the RERA portal.
It is also important to note that complaints filed under RERA must be filed within one year from the date of possession or date of registration of the property, whichever is earlier. This time limit can be extended by the RERA authorities in exceptional circumstances.
Once the complaint is filed on the RERA portal, the RERA authorities will send a notice to the builder, asking them to respond to the complaint within a specified time frame. The builder can respond to the complaint by either accepting the allegations made by the homebuyer or by disputing them. If the builder accepts the allegations made by the homebuyer, they will be required to rectify the issue within a specified time frame. If the builder disputes the allegations, the RERA authorities will conduct an investigation and provide a ruling based on the evidence presented by both parties.
Conclusion:
Filing a complaint against a builder under RERA is a simple and straightforward process that can be done online. Homebuyers can register on the RERA portal, fill in the complaint form, upload supporting documents, and submit the complaint. It is important to provide accurate and complete details to ensure that the complaint is investigated properly. RERA provides a platform for homebuyers to seek justice and hold builders accountable for any misconduct.
