RERA Complaints · Mumbai
Resolve your builder dispute with experienced MahaRERA lawyers.
Buying a home is one of the biggest financial investments a person makes. Unfortunately, many homebuyers in Mumbai face issues such as delayed possession, project delays, refund disputes, misleading advertisements, construction defects, and violations of builder-buyer agreements. If your builder has failed to fulfil their legal or contractual obligations, you may have the right to file a complaint before the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.
Our experienced RERA lawyers in Mumbai provide legal assistance to homebuyers, commercial property purchasers, plot buyers, investors, and housing associations seeking relief against builders and developers. Whether your dispute relates to delayed possession, non-delivery of promised amenities, refund of booking amounts, structural defects, or unfair trade practices, we guide you through every stage of the complaint process.
From reviewing your documents and preparing the complaint to representing you before MahaRERA and handling appeals before the Real Estate Appellate Tribunal, our legal team offers comprehensive support designed to protect your rights and help you pursue the appropriate legal remedy.
Why choose our RERA lawyers?
Talk to a MahaRERA lawyer
Response within one business day. No obligation.
Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA)
Online (through the MahaRERA portal) and as per applicable procedures
Homebuyers, commercial buyers, plot buyers, housing societies, legal representatives
Delayed possession, refund claims, construction defects, builder fraud, agreement violations
Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal
Advocate representation permitted
Refund, interest, compensation, possession, rectification of defects
What is a RERA complaint?
A RERA complaint is a formal legal proceeding initiated before the Real Estate Regulatory Authority by an allottee or other eligible stakeholder against a builder, promoter, or registered real estate agent for violations of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. The Act was introduced to improve transparency, accountability, and consumer protection in India’s real estate sector by regulating real estate projects and ensuring compliance with statutory obligations.
In Maharashtra, such complaints are filed before the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA), one of the country’s most active and well-established RERA authorities. MahaRERA deals with disputes involving registered real estate projects located across Maharashtra, including Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
Homebuyers may approach MahaRERA when builders fail to honour the commitments made under the builder-buyer agreement or violate the provisions of the RERA Act. Common reasons for filing a complaint include delays in handing over possession, refusal to refund booking amounts, structural defects, changes to sanctioned plans without following legal requirements, misleading advertisements, failure to provide promised amenities, and other unfair practices.
The objective of filing a RERA complaint is to seek timely and effective legal remedies. Depending on the facts of the case, MahaRERA may direct the builder to hand over possession, refund the amount paid along with applicable interest, rectify defects, pay compensation where legally permissible, or comply with other statutory obligations under the Act.
Before filing a complaint, it is advisable to review the builder-buyer agreement, gather supporting documents such as payment receipts and correspondence, and assess whether the dispute falls within MahaRERA’s jurisdiction. A properly drafted complaint supported by relevant evidence can help present the case more effectively before the authority.
For homebuyers facing builder-related disputes, the filing of RERA complaints in Mumbai provides a specialized legal mechanism to enforce their rights without immediately resorting to lengthy civil court proceedings.
When can you file a RERA complaint in Mumbai?
If you have invested in a residential or commercial project in Mumbai and your rights have been affected, filing a complaint before MahaRERA may be an appropriate course of action.
One of the most common reasons for approaching MahaRERA is a delay in handing over possession of a flat, apartment, villa, or commercial unit beyond the possession date mentioned in the agreement for sale. If the delay is not justified under the law or the agreement, buyers may seek remedies such as possession of the property, interest for the delayed period, refund of the amount paid, or other relief available under the RERA Act.
If you have cancelled your booking or are otherwise legally entitled to receive a refund but the builder refuses to return your money or causes unreasonable delays, you may approach MahaRERA for appropriate relief. Refund disputes often arise due to project delays, cancellation of bookings, failure to obtain approvals, or breaches of contractual obligations.
Builders are expected to provide accurate information regarding project approvals, carpet area, amenities, possession timelines, specifications, and other important details. If you purchased a property based on misleading advertisements, brochures, or false assurances, you may have grounds to file a complaint before MahaRERA.
After booking a property, buyers sometimes discover that the builder has altered the approved layout, floor plans, specifications, or common facilities without complying with the legal requirements under the RERA Act. Where such unauthorized changes affect the rights of allottees, MahaRERA may examine the matter in accordance with the applicable law.
Construction defects may become apparent either before or after possession, including water leakage, cracks in walls, poor plumbing, faulty electrical work, inferior construction materials, and structural deficiencies. Where legally applicable, buyers may seek rectification of defects or other remedies available under the RERA Act.
Many developers advertise premium facilities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, gymnasium, children’s play area, landscaped gardens, power backup, covered parking, and security systems. If these amenities are not provided despite being promised in the agreement or promotional materials, buyers may seek relief before MahaRERA.
Builders cannot arbitrarily impose charges that are inconsistent with the agreement for sale or applicable law, such as unapproved maintenance charges, hidden development charges, excess parking charges, unauthorized infrastructure fees, or unexplained administrative charges. Such demands may be challenged before MahaRERA depending on the facts of the case.
A complaint may arise where the promoter fails to comply with contractual obligations relating to possession timeline, construction specifications, payment schedule, carpet area, project completion, or delivery of common amenities.
Certain real estate projects are required to be registered under the RERA Act before being marketed or sold. If a builder is promoting a project that ought to have been registered but has failed to obtain registration, buyers may have legal remedies available under the Act.
Registered real estate agents must also comply with the provisions of the RERA Act. Complaints may be filed where an agent has engaged in misrepresentation, fraudulent practices, false commitments, concealment of material facts, or other violations of the Act.
Who can file a RERA complaint in Mumbai?
The RERA Act provides protection not only to homebuyers but also to several other stakeholders involved in real estate transactions.
Individuals who have booked or purchased residential apartments, flats, villas, independent houses, or other residential units in eligible projects can file complaints regarding builder defaults, possession delays, refunds, compensation, or construction defects.
Purchasers of residential or commercial plots forming part of a project covered by the RERA Act may also seek remedies before MahaRERA where the promoter has failed to fulfil contractual or statutory obligations.
Owners or purchasers of office spaces, retail shops, commercial units, business parks, and commercial complexes may file complaints relating to delays, non-delivery, refund disputes, or other violations under the Act.
Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), Co-operative Housing Societies, and Associations of Allottees may initiate complaints where common issues affect multiple buyers within the same project, such as incomplete common amenities, project-wide delays, or failure to execute conveyance.
Where the original allottee has passed away or is unable to personally pursue legal proceedings, a legal heir or duly authorized representative may file or continue proceedings in accordance with applicable law.
In certain circumstances, promoters may also approach MahaRERA regarding disputes involving allottees or other parties where the Act permits such proceedings.
Real estate agents registered under the RERA Act may also seek remedies before the authority where they possess legal rights under the applicable provisions.
Step-by-step process for filing a RERA complaint in Mumbai
Although specific procedural requirements may change over time, the general process before MahaRERA typically involves the following steps.
Assess whether the dispute falls within the scope of the RERA Act, whether the project is covered by MahaRERA, and whether the issue relates to obligations imposed under the Act or the agreement for sale.
Compile the agreement for sale, allotment letter, payment receipts, builder communications, demand letters, brochures, emails, WhatsApp chats, photographs, identity proof, and address proof.
The complaint should include details of the complainant, details of the promoter, project information, facts of the dispute, relevant legal provisions, relief sought, and a list of supporting documents.
Submit the complaint along with required documents, the applicable filing fee, and supporting evidence. MahaRERA maintains an online complaint filing system for electronic submission.
After the complaint is accepted, MahaRERA generally issues a notice to the builder or respondent, directing them to file their response within the prescribed period.
Both parties present documents, evidence, legal submissions, and replies. Depending on complexity, the matter may involve one or more hearings before being reserved for orders.
After examining the pleadings, documents, and submissions, MahaRERA may direct delivery of possession, refund of money, payment of interest, rectification of defects, or compliance with statutory obligations.
If either party is dissatisfied with the order, an appeal may be filed before the Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal within the time prescribed under the Act.
Documents required for filing a RERA complaint in Mumbai
Depending on the nature of the dispute, the required documents may vary. The following are commonly required while filing a RERA complaint in Mumbai.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Agreement for Sale | Establishes the contractual rights and obligations of both parties. |
| Allotment Letter | Confirms the allotment of the property to the buyer. |
| Payment Receipts | Proof of payments made to the builder. |
| Bank Statements (if applicable) | Supports the payment history. |
| Builder Demand Letters | Shows payment demands and project-related communications. |
| Email Correspondence | Records communication between the buyer and builder. |
| WhatsApp Chats (where relevant) | Additional evidence of discussions or commitments. |
| Project Brochure | Demonstrates promises made regarding amenities, specifications, and timelines. |
| Advertisement Copies | Supports claims of misleading advertisements or false representations. |
| Photographs or Videos | Evidence of construction status or defects. |
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, or other valid government-issued ID. |
| Address Proof | Proof of current residential address. |
| Power of Attorney (if applicable) | Required if the complaint is filed through an authorised representative. |
| Legal Notice (if issued) | Shows previous attempts to resolve the dispute. |
Pro Tip: Arrange all documents in chronological order and keep scanned PDF copies ready for online filing through the MahaRERA portal.
MahaRERA complaint filing fees in Mumbai
Before filing a complaint, the complainant is generally required to pay the prescribed fee as specified under the applicable provisions and regulations governing MahaRERA proceedings. The exact fee may vary depending on the nature of the complaint, the type of applicant, applicable rules and notifications, and amendments issued by MahaRERA.
Since filing fees and procedural requirements may change over time, applicants should verify the latest fee structure from the official MahaRERA website or consult a qualified RERA lawyer before submitting the complaint.
Apart from the statutory filing fee, there may be additional costs associated with preparation of documents, legal drafting, advocate’s professional fees, notarisation or attestation where required, and miscellaneous documentation expenses.
How to file a RERA complaint online in Mumbai
MahaRERA has established an online complaint filing system that enables homebuyers to submit complaints electronically and track the progress of their cases.
Access the official Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority website and navigate to the complaint filing section.
Create a user account by providing your personal details, mobile number, and email address. Existing users can log in using their registered credentials.
Fill in the prescribed form with the name and address of the complainant, builder details, MahaRERA project registration details (if applicable), description of the dispute, and relief sought.
Attach scanned copies of the agreement for sale, payment receipts, builder correspondence, project brochure, identity proof, address proof, and other supporting evidence. Ensure documents are clear and legible.
The prescribed fee can generally be paid through the online payment options available on the MahaRERA portal. Keep the payment receipt for future reference.
Once all details are verified and documents uploaded, submit the complaint electronically. A complaint reference number or acknowledgement is typically generated.
Applicants can generally monitor the status of their complaint, view hearing dates, receive notices, and access updates through the MahaRERA portal.
How our RERA lawyers help with filing complaints in Mumbai
Our experienced RERA lawyers in Mumbai assist clients at every stage of the proceedings, helping them present their case effectively and protect their legal rights.
Every dispute begins with a detailed assessment of the facts. We review your documents, understand the issues involved, and advise whether your matter falls within the jurisdiction of MahaRERA.
Our legal team examines the agreement for sale, payment records, builder communications, project approvals, brochures, notices, and other supporting evidence forming the foundation of a strong complaint.
A well-prepared complaint clearly explains the facts, identifies the builder’s violations, cites the applicable legal provisions, and specifies the relief sought.
We assist clients in completing the prescribed forms, compiling the necessary documents, paying the applicable filing fee, and filing the complaint in accordance with the prescribed procedure.
Our advocates represent clients by presenting legal arguments, producing documentary evidence, responding to objections, and addressing procedural issues throughout the case.
Where appropriate, we assist clients in negotiating settlements with builders while ensuring that any proposed resolution adequately protects their legal rights and financial interests.
If either party wishes to challenge a MahaRERA order, we provide legal advice and representation before the Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal.
Obtaining a favourable order is only one step. If the builder fails to comply, we assist clients in initiating appropriate legal proceedings for enforcement of the order.
Relief you can claim in a MahaRERA complaint
| Relief Available | Description |
|---|---|
| Refund of Amount Paid | Refund of the consideration paid by the allottee where permitted under law. |
| Interest on Delayed Possession | Interest for delay in handing over possession, subject to the provisions of the Act. |
| Interest on Delayed Refund | Interest where refunds are not made within the prescribed period. |
| Possession of Property | Direction to deliver possession in accordance with the agreement and law. |
| Compensation | Compensation where legally permissible based on the facts of the case. |
| Rectification of Structural Defects | Orders directing the promoter to rectify defects or deficiencies. |
| Completion of Promised Amenities | Directions regarding facilities promised in the agreement or promotional materials. |
| Removal of Unfair Charges | Relief against unauthorized or illegal demands, where applicable. |
| Compliance with Statutory Obligations | Orders directing the builder to comply with the provisions of the RERA Act. |
| Other Appropriate Relief | Any other relief that MahaRERA considers appropriate under the circumstances. |
Every complaint is decided on its own merits after considering the documents, evidence, and applicable legal provisions. Seeking legal advice before filing can help identify the remedies that best align with the facts of your case.
Common builder violations that may lead to a MahaRERA complaint
Homebuyers in Mumbai frequently encounter issues where builders fail to comply with obligations imposed by the RERA Act or the terms of the Agreement for Sale.
Delay in handing over possession
Poor construction quality
Refusal to refund money
Failure to provide promised amenities
Misleading advertisements
Illegal additional charges
Unauthorized changes to approved plans
Non-compliance with the Agreement for Sale
Non-registration of eligible projects
Why choose our RERA lawyers in Mumbai?
Our legal team has extensive experience handling matters involving delayed possession, refund claims, builder defaults, compensation, construction defects, and other disputes under the RERA Act.
We provide complete legal support throughout the complaint process, including initial consultation, case evaluation, document verification, complaint drafting, online filing, hearings, appeals, and enforcement of orders.
Our lawyers prepare detailed complaints supported by documentary evidence and relevant legal provisions, helping present your case clearly before MahaRERA.
We represent clients throughout the proceedings by presenting legal submissions, responding to objections, producing documentary evidence, and safeguarding our clients’ interests.
Where necessary, we advise and represent clients before the Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal in accordance with the applicable legal framework.
We keep our clients informed at every stage of the matter, explain procedural developments, and provide regular updates regarding hearings and case progress.
Our objective is to provide practical legal solutions while ensuring clients understand every stage of the legal proceedings and the legal remedies available under applicable law.
Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA)
The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) is the statutory authority established under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 for the State of Maharashtra.
Recognized as one of India’s most active RERA authorities, MahaRERA regulates real estate projects, promotes transparency, safeguards the interests of homebuyers, and ensures compliance with the provisions of the Act. For buyers in Mumbai and across Maharashtra, MahaRERA provides an effective forum for resolving disputes involving builders, promoters, and registered real estate agents.
Registration of eligible real estate projects
Registration of real estate agents
Regulation of real estate transactions
Hearing complaints filed by homebuyers and other stakeholders
Monitoring compliance with the RERA Act
Issuing directions and orders against defaulting builders
Delayed possession of flats
Refund claims
Interest on delayed possession
Compensation claims
Structural and defective construction
Misleading advertisements
Non-delivery of promised amenities
Violation of the Agreement for Sale
Before filing a complaint, buyers should verify that their project falls within the jurisdiction of MahaRERA and ensure that all relevant documents are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
A RERA complaint is a legal complaint filed before the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA) against a builder, promoter, or real estate agent for violations of the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.
You can file a complaint through the official MahaRERA portal by completing the prescribed form, uploading supporting documents, and paying the applicable filing fee.
Yes. MahaRERA provides an online complaint filing system that allows applicants to submit complaints, upload documents, and track the status of their cases.
Homebuyers, commercial property buyers, plot purchasers, housing societies, apartment owners’ associations, legal heirs, and other eligible stakeholders may file complaints before MahaRERA.
Yes. If your builder has failed to hand over possession within the agreed timeline, you may approach MahaRERA for relief as provided under the RERA Act.
Yes. Depending on the facts of your case, MahaRERA may consider claims for refund along with applicable interest where permitted under the law.
Commonly required documents include the Agreement for Sale, allotment letter, payment receipts, builder correspondence, identity proof, address proof, project brochures, and other supporting evidence.
No. You can file a complaint yourself. However, an experienced RERA lawyer can assist with drafting the complaint, preparing documents, and representing you before MahaRERA.
The filing fee is prescribed under the applicable MahaRERA rules and may be revised from time to time. It is advisable to verify the latest fee before filing.
The timeline depends on the nature of the dispute, the number of hearings, the evidence involved, and the authority’s case schedule.
If the project was required to be registered under the RERA Act but was not registered, you may have legal remedies under the Act depending on the circumstances.
Yes. Buyers may file complaints relating to structural defects, poor construction quality, missing amenities, or other violations even after possession, where applicable.
Yes. NRIs who have purchased property in projects covered by the RERA Act may file complaints before MahaRERA, subject to the applicable legal requirements.
Depending on the facts of the case, MahaRERA may grant compensation, refund, interest, possession, or other relief available under the RERA Act.
MahaRERA may grant relief such as refund of the amount paid, interest, possession of the property, compensation, rectification of defects, or directions to the builder to comply with legal obligations.
Yes. Complaints may be filed against registered real estate agents for misrepresentation, unfair trade practices, or violations of the RERA Act.
Yes. Multiple homebuyers or an association of allottees may file a joint complaint where the dispute affects several purchasers in the same project.
If a builder fails to comply with the order, legal remedies for enforcement are available under the provisions of the RERA Act.
Yes. In appropriate cases, a complaint may be withdrawn in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures of MahaRERA.
Yes. Buyers may approach MahaRERA for issues such as structural defects, water leakage, poor workmanship, defective plumbing, electrical issues, or use of substandard materials.
Yes. If the builder has made unauthorized changes to sanctioned plans or project specifications, you may seek relief before MahaRERA.
Yes. If a builder demands charges that are not supported by the Agreement for Sale or applicable law, you may challenge those demands before MahaRERA.
Yes. If a dispute arises regarding cancellation, forfeiture of the booking amount, or refund obligations, you may file a complaint if the matter falls within MahaRERA’s jurisdiction.
Yes. Any person aggrieved by an order of MahaRERA may file an appeal before the Maharashtra Real Estate Appellate Tribunal within the prescribed time.
RERA complaints relating to projects in Mumbai are generally heard by the Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRERA).
Yes. If construction has been abandoned or significantly delayed without lawful justification, buyers may approach MahaRERA for appropriate relief.
Yes. In eligible cases, buyers may seek interest for delayed possession in accordance with the provisions of the RERA Act and applicable MahaRERA regulations.
A legal notice is not mandatory in every case. However, sending one may help resolve the dispute amicably or support your case depending on the circumstances.
Yes. Purchasers of eligible commercial properties, including offices and shops, may file complaints before MahaRERA if their rights under the RERA Act have been violated.
Our experienced RERA lawyers provide end-to-end legal assistance, including case evaluation, complaint drafting, document review, filing before MahaRERA, representation during hearings, appeals, and enforcement of orders, helping clients effectively resolve builder disputes.
Need help filing a RERA complaint in Mumbai?
If you are facing delayed possession, refund issues, construction defects, false promises by a builder, or any other real estate dispute, timely legal assistance can help you understand your rights and pursue the remedies available under the RERA Act. Free initial case evaluation, complaint drafting and filing assistance, representation before MahaRERA, appeals and execution proceedings — online and offline consultations available.