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Filing a Complaint Against a Builder or Real Estate Company
Buying a home is a major financial and emotional investment. But what happens when builders delay possession, deliver poor-quality construction, or breach their promises? In such cases, Indian law provides strong legal remedies for homebuyers. This guide explains how to file a complaint and get justice.
Who Can File a Complaint
Grounds for Complaint
Filing Through RERA
Approaching Consumer Courts
Documents Required
Tips for Stronger Complaints
What Happens Next
Who Can File a Complaint
Any homebuyer, legal heir, or co-owner who has entered into a sale agreement with a builder can file a complaint. You can also complain through a registered housing society if many residents are affected.
Grounds for Complaint
You can file a complaint against the builder if any of the following applies:
- Delay in possession beyond promised time
- Substandard construction quality or deviation from approved plans
- Charging hidden or additional amounts without consent
- Non-refund of booking/cancellation amount
- Misleading advertisements or false commitments
Filing Through RERA
RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) was set up to regulate builders and protect buyers. Most states in India have a RERA portal where complaints can be filed online.
Steps to file a complaint under RERA:
- Visit your State’s RERA website.
- Register/login as a complainant.
- Fill in details about the builder, project, and complaint.
- Upload supporting documents like agreement, receipts, and communication history.
- Pay the required fee (varies by state).
Once submitted, RERA will send notices to the builder and conduct hearings. Compensation or penalties may be awarded if the complaint is upheld.
Approaching Consumer Courts
If your state’s RERA is not effective, or if you want a different remedy (like refund or compensation), you can approach:
- District Consumer Commission – if claim is below ₹50 lakh
- State Commission – if claim is ₹50 lakh to ₹2 crore
- National Commission (NCDRC) – if claim exceeds ₹2 crore
Use the E-Daakhil Portal to file your complaint online.
Documents Required
Prepare the following before filing your complaint:
- Builder-buyer agreement or allotment letter
- Payment receipts and bank statements
- Construction plan approvals or project brochures
- Written/email communications with builder
- Possession delay proof or photos (if applicable)
- ID and address proof of complainant
Tips for Stronger Complaints
- Always file a written/email complaint with the builder first. Keep copies.
- Organize all documents by date and purpose in a clear format (preferably PDFs).
- Be factual. Avoid emotional or aggressive language.
- Mention how the delay or misrepresentation has financially or emotionally impacted you.
- If other buyers are facing the same issue, consider a group complaint or class action.
What Happens Next?
Once filed, the authority (RERA or Consumer Commission) will examine your complaint and send notices to the builder. Hearings may be held in person or virtually. You’ll receive SMS or email updates. If the builder fails to respond or comply, a compensation order or penalty can be issued—and enforced through legal action.
Related Posts on Peace4.in
- How to Lodge a Complaint on the E-Daakhil Portal
- How to File a Complaint on the National Consumer Helpline (NCH)
Empowered homebuyers hold the real estate industry accountable. Don’t hesitate to seek justice when your rights are violated.