Why Checking the RERA Website is Crucial Before Buying a Property

29/04/2025

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Buying a home is one of life’s biggest milestones a dream nurtured over years of hard work, emotional planning, and financial discipline. But in the complex world of real estate, dreams can turn into nightmares if you aren’t careful. Over the past decade, India has witnessed numerous cases where homebuyers were left high and dry due to project delays, cost escalations, legal disputes, and unfulfilled promises.

So, what’s the safeguard?

That’s where RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) steps in. If you’re a buyer, understanding why RERA is required in real estate is no longer optional it’s essential.

What is RERA?

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, commonly referred to as RERA, is a legislation enacted by the Government of India to regulate the real estate sector and protect the interests of homebuyers.

Before RERA came into existence, there was no standard regulation for real estate developers, which often led to malpractices like:

●     Pre-launch sales of unapproved projects

●     Delayed possession without legal recourse

●     Changes in project layout

●     Disparity in promised and delivered amenities

●     Escalation of costs mid-way

RERA was introduced to bring transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the real estate sector.

 Why RERA is Required in Real Estate

Here’s why RERA is required in real estate and why it changed the dynamics of property buying:

●     To eliminate fly-by-night operators: Developers can no longer sell projects without legal approvals and RERA registration.

●     To ensure timely delivery: With clear deadlines and penalties for delays, developers are incentivized to complete projects on time.

●     To enhance buyer confidence: RERA brings trust and legal recourse into a space that was earlier opaque and one-sided.

●     To create a transparent ecosystem: Homebuyers can now access complete project information online before making decisions.

 What is the Purpose of the RERA Act?

The purpose of the RERA Act is centered around three key pillars—transparency, accountability, and consumer protection. Here's what the Act aims to accomplish:

1. Mandatory Project Registration

Every real estate project residential or commercial must be registered under the respective state RERA before advertising or selling.

2. Disclosure of Information

Builders must disclose details like:

●     Land ownership documents

●     Approved layout and plans

●     Project timelines

●     Financial statements

●     Names of contractors and architects

All of this is available to the public via the RERA website.

3. Protection of Buyer’s Money

At least 70% of the funds collected from homebuyers must be kept in an escrow account to be used only for the construction of that project.

4. Penal Provisions

If the builder fails to comply, there are hefty penalties, including imprisonment in extreme cases.

 How RERA Will Benefit Buyers

Let’s break down exactly how RERA will benefit buyers and why it’s a blessing for anyone investing in property.

✅ 1. Timely Possession

Delays were one of the biggest pain points for homebuyers. RERA enforces strict project deadlines and penalizes developers for not meeting them.

✅ 2. Clarity on Carpet Area

Developers can no longer mislead buyers with terms like "super built-up" or "saleable area." Only carpet area (usable space) can be sold, giving buyers what they truly pay for.

✅ 3. No More False Promises

If the builder promises a swimming pool, clubhouse, or sky lounge, it must be delivered exactly as promised.

✅ 4. Legal Redressal

Buyers can directly file complaints with RERA online. Fast-track judgements are provided to ensure justice isn't delayed.

✅ 5. Five-Year Defect Liability

Any structural or workmanship defect found within 5 years must be rectified by the developer at no additional cost.

 How to Check RERA-Approved Project

Now that you know why RERA is important, the next logical step is understanding how to check if a project is RERA-approved.

Every state in India has its own RERA website where you can:

●     Verify project registration

●     Track construction progress

●     View legal documents

●     See the delivery timeline

●     Check complaint history

Let’s take a closer look at how it works in Maharashtra.

 How to Check RERA-Registered Projects in Mumbai (via MahaRERA)

Mumbai falls under MahaRERA, one of the most transparent and active RERA bodies in India.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Go to https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in
   
2. Click on the “Search Project” option.
   
   
3. Enter one or more of the following:
   
   

○     Project Name

○     Developer/Promoter Name

○     Registration Number

○     District/Taluka

4. View the full project details, including:
   
   

○     Legal status

○     Layout plans

○     Progress updates

○     Complaint records

○     Financial disclosures

This is the best way to check RERA-approved projects or how to check a project in RERA.

 What is MahaRERA Registration?

MahaRERA registration is the state-specific approval granted by the Maharashtra RERA authority to real estate developers. Only once a project is MahaRERA-registered can it be legally advertised or sold in the state.

A project without MahaRERA registration is either incomplete in documentation or not legally authorized for sale a huge red flag for buyers.


 Pro Tip:

Never buy a property without checking its RERA status first. If the project isn’t on the portal, walk away. No matter how good the deal looks, the risks far outweigh the savings.

FAQs: Everything You Wanted to Know About RERA

Q1. Why is RERA registration important for buyers?

It ensures the builder is legally accountable, financially transparent, and bound to deliver the project as promised on time and without any hidden costs.

Q2. Can a builder sell without RERA registration?

No. It is illegal to advertise or sell real estate projects without RERA registration.

Q3. How can I check if a project is RERA registered?

Visit your state RERA website, go to “Registered Projects,” and search using the project or promoter name.

Q4. What is the difference between RERA and MahaRERA?

RERA is the national regulation; MahaRERA is the Maharashtra-specific body implementing the same regulations.

Q5. What if a RERA-registered builder delays the project?

You can file a complaint online. RERA may impose penalties, offer compensation, or direct refunds depending on the situation.

Q6. Can I see project progress on RERA portals?

Yes. Developers must regularly update construction milestones on the RERA site.

Q7. What if I face quality issues post-possession?

Under RERA, the builder is liable to fix defects for up to 5 years from the possession date.

Q8. Is RERA applicable to all types of properties?

Yes. It covers residential, commercial, and mixed-use real estate developments.

Q9. How do I file a complaint on RERA?

Each RERA website has a “Grievance Redressal” section where you can lodge complaints online with supporting documents.

Q10. What if my city or project isn’t listed on the RERA site?

Avoid investing in it. Either it’s not legally registered, or the builder has not fulfilled basic legal requirements.

Conclusion: Don’t Just Dream It, RERA-Check It

Your dream home deserves more than a leap of faith. It deserves research, legality, and safety. RERA makes all this possible. By simply checking a project’s RERA status, you:

●     Protect your investment

●     Avoid scams and delays

●     Gain peace of mind

●     Ensure legal protection

●     Stay updated on project progress

Whether you’re buying your first flat or investing in a commercial shop, checking the RERA website should always be your first step.

Because in real estate, information isn’t just power it’s protection.