Filing a complaint under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) involves a structured procedure designed to address grievances related to real estate projects. The procedure ensures that complaints regarding project delays, defects, or non-compliance with RERA regulations are resolved efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file a complaint under RERA: 1. Understand the Grounds for Complaint: Non-Delivery of Possession: Delay in handing over possession of the property. Defects in Construction: Structural defects or poor quality of construction. Deviation from Promised Specifications: Discrepancies between the promised and actual specifications of the property. Non-Compliance with RERA Rules: Non-adherence to RERA regulations or violations of the registration terms. 2. Gather Required Documents: Copy of RERA Registration Certificate: Copy of the project’s RERA registration certificate. Agreement of Sale: A copy of the sale agreement or any contract related to the property. Proof of Payment: Receipts or proof of payments made towards the purchase of the property. Correspondence: Any communication exchanged with the builder or developer regarding the issue. Photographs/Evidence: Any relevant photographs or evidence supporting your claim. 3. Draft a Complaint: Details to Include: Name and contact details of the complainant. Details of the project and developer. Nature of the complaint and specific grievances. Evidence supporting the complaint. Details of any prior correspondence with the developer regarding the issue. Format: Complaints should be well-structured and include all necessary details and evidence. A formal complaint letter or application is usually required. 4. File the Complaint with the RERA Authority: Online Filing: Visit the RERA Website: Access the official RERA website of the state or union territory where the project is located. Create an Account: Register or log in to the RERA portal. Fill the Complaint Form: Complete the online complaint form with required details and upload supporting documents. Submit the Complaint: Submit the complaint through the online system. You may receive an acknowledgment or reference number for tracking. Offline Filing: Visit RERA Office: Go to the office of the RERA Authority in the respective state or union territory. Submit Documents: Submit the complaint form along with supporting documents to the RERA office. Receive Acknowledgment: Obtain an acknowledgment receipt confirming the submission of the complaint. 5. Attend Hearings: Notice of Hearing: The RERA Authority will issue a notice of hearing to both the complainant and the developer. Participate in Hearings: Attend the hearing to present your case. Both parties will have the opportunity to present their arguments and evidence. Provide Additional Evidence: If required, provide any additional evidence or documentation during the hearing. 6. Await the RERA Authority’s Decision: Order or Judgment: After reviewing the evidence and hearing both parties, the RERA Authority will issue an order or judgment. Implementation: The developer is required to comply with the RERA Authority’s decision. This may include rectifying defects, delivering possession, or paying compensation. 7. Appeal the Decision: Appeal Process: If either party is dissatisfied with the RERA Authority’s decision, they can appeal to the Appellate Tribunal established under RERA. File an Appeal: Follow the prescribed procedure to file an appeal, including submitting necessary documents and evidence. 8. Follow Up: Monitor Progress: Keep track of the progress of your complaint and ensure that the developer complies with the RERA Authority’s order. Seek Legal Recourse: If the developer fails to comply or if there are further issues, seek legal recourse through civil courts or other relevant forums. Additional Tips: Documentation: Keep copies of all correspondence and documents related to the complaint. Consultation: Consider consulting a legal expert or advisor to ensure that your complaint is well-prepared and properly filed. By following these steps, you can effectively file a complaint under RERA and seek resolution for issues related to real estate projects.