How to File a RERA Complaint Against a Builder: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Introduction

The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA) provides homebuyers with a legal mechanism to file complaints against builders, promoters, and registered real estate agents for violations of the Act or the terms of the agreement.

If a builder delays possession, makes false promises, fails to complete the project, or violates the provisions of RERA, an aggrieved homebuyer may approach the appropriate State Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) for relief.

This guide explains when a RERA complaint can be filed, the step-by-step filing process, required documents, available remedies, and important legal considerations.

What is a RERA Complaint?

A RERA complaint is a legal application filed before the competent State or Union Territory Real Estate Regulatory Authority seeking relief against a builder, promoter, or registered real estate agent for violations under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016.

The Authority examines the complaint and may pass appropriate orders in accordance with the Act.

When Can You File a RERA Complaint?

A complaint may generally be filed in situations such as:

• Delay in handing over possession.

• Failure to complete the project within the promised timeline.

• False or misleading advertisements.

• Violation of the Agreement for Sale.

• Unauthorized changes to approved plans.

• Poor construction quality or structural defects, where covered by law.

• Failure to provide promised amenities.

• Improper collection of payments.

• Non-compliance with the provisions of RERA.

• Other disputes covered under the Act.

Each complaint is decided on its own facts and applicable law.

Who Can File a Complaint?

Subject to the provisions of the Act, a complaint may generally be filed by:

• Homebuyers.

• Allottees.

• Apartment owners.

• Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs).

• Any person aggrieved by a violation of the Act.

• Other eligible persons as permitted under RERA.

Which Authority Hears RERA Complaints?

Complaints are generally filed before the State or Union Territory Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) having jurisdiction over the project.

In certain matters relating to compensation, the complaint may be dealt with by the appropriate authority as provided under the Act.

Step-by-Step Process to File a RERA Complaint

Step 1: Gather All Relevant Documents

Before filing the complaint, collect all supporting documents relating to the dispute.

Step 2: Identify the Legal Issue

Clearly identify the grievance, such as:

• Delay in possession.

• Breach of contract.

• Construction defects.

• Non-delivery of promised facilities.

• Any other violation under RERA.

Step 3: Draft the Complaint

The complaint generally includes:

• Name and address of the complainant.

• Details of the builder or promoter.

• Project details.

• Facts of the case.

• Nature of the violation.

• Relief sought.

• List of supporting documents.

Step 4: File the Complaint

The complaint may generally be filed:

• Through the official State RERA online portal (where available).

• Offline before the competent RERA Authority, if permitted.

Applicable filing fees and procedural requirements vary from State to State.

Step 5: Notice to the Builder

After the complaint is accepted, the Authority generally issues notice to the builder or promoter, seeking a response.

Step 6: Hearing

Both parties are given an opportunity to present:

• Documents.

• Written submissions.

• Oral arguments.

• Other relevant evidence.

The Authority examines the material before passing an order.

Step 7: Final Order

Depending on the facts and applicable law, the RERA Authority may pass appropriate orders, including directions permitted under the Act.

Documents Generally Required

The following documents may generally be required:

• Identity proof.

• Address proof.

• Booking application.

• Allotment letter.

• Agreement for Sale.

• Payment receipts.

• Builder-buyer correspondence.

• Email or WhatsApp communications, where relevant.

• Brochures or advertisements.

• Photographs, if applicable.

• Any other supporting documents.

Reliefs Available Under RERA

Depending on the facts of the case, the Authority may grant relief such as:

• Direction to comply with legal obligations.

• Refund, where permitted under the Act.

• Interest, where applicable.

• Compensation, subject to legal provisions.

• Direction to hand over possession.

• Rectification of defects, where applicable.

• Other reliefs available under the Act.

Can a Complaint Be Filed Online?

Yes. Most State RERA Authorities provide online complaint filing facilities through their official websites.

The exact procedure, filing fee, and required documents may vary depending on the State or Union Territory.

Time Taken for Disposal

There is no uniform timeline applicable to every case.

The duration depends on factors such as:

• Nature of the dispute.

• Complexity of the case.

• Availability of evidence.

• Number of hearings.

• Workload of the Authority.