RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority) entered India’s real estate sector to create higher levels of transparency between homebuyers and builders during its rapid expansion phase. Purchasers facing mistreatment from builders can solve their issues by filing RERA complaints at their disposal while their property delivery gets delayed or their construction stops or their agreement terms are broken. RERA processing begins after you lodge a complaint. The following discussion explains every stage of dispute resolution particularly focusing on implementation procedures and best practices of Haryana RERA.
Understanding RERA A Quick Overview
The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 created RERA to protect the wellbeing of house buyers. Every state maintains its own RERA authority which operates as HARERA (Haryana Real Estate Regulatory Authority) throughout Haryana. RERA mandates builders to enroll their projects into its system while imposing penalties on builders for project delay and unreal promises and legal misconduct.
A total of 1,24,947 complaints have been successfully handled by multiple state RERA bodies throughout India during 2024 per records from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Who Can File a RERA Complaint?
Anyone affected by a real estate transaction can file a RERA complaint, including:
- Homebuyers
- Allottees
- Agents
- Legal representatives of affected parties
Typical reasons for filing include:
- Delay in possession
- Misleading advertisements
- Change in layout without consent
- Breach of agreement
- Non-refund of booking amount
If you’re wondering how to file complaint in RERA Haryana, the good news is the process is transparent and can be initiated both online and offline.
Step-by-Step Guide How to File a Complaint in RERA Haryana
Step 1: Collect Evidence and Documentation
Before filing, gather:
- Builder-buyer agreement
- Payment receipts
- Email communications
- Project registration number
- Proof of delay or breach
Step 2: Register on the HARERA Portal
Visit the official HARERA website. Create an account using your email ID and mobile number.
Step 3: File a RERA Complaint Online
Once registered, go to the “Complaint Registration” section. Fill out:
- Personal details
- Builder’s details
- Project registration number
- Nature of complaint (e.g., RERA complaint for delay in possession)
Upload all necessary documents and pay the complaint fee (typically ₹1,000 to ₹5,000, depending on the nature of the case).
Step 4: Submit and Get Acknowledgement
Once submitted, you will receive a Complaint ID and acknowledgement. Keep this ID safe for tracking your complaint status.
Pro Tip: Always submit clear documentation and timelines when filing your RERA complaint online. A well-prepared submission increases your chances of a favorable verdict.
What Happens After Filing a RERA Complaint?
Here’s the detailed process that unfolds once you’ve lodged your complaint:
1. Scrutiny of Complaint
The complaint is reviewed by the HARERA administrative team to ensure it is complete and falls under their jurisdiction. This usually takes 7–14 days.
2. Issuance of Notice to Builder
HARERA issues a notice to the builder (respondent), summarizing the complaint and asking them to respond—usually within 30 days.
3. Scheduling of Hearing
After receiving the response from the builder, HARERA schedules a hearing date. Both parties (complainant and respondent) must appear before the authority. Multiple hearings may be held if the case is complex.
- Hearings are conducted in a quasi-judicial manner.
- You can represent yourself or hire a legal expert.
Pro Tip: You do not necessarily need a lawyer, but hiring one can help navigate technical and legal nuances, especially in cases like RERA complaint against builder for financial fraud or misrepresentation.
4. Mediation or Conciliation (Optional)
In some states, RERA offers conciliation forums for alternate dispute resolution. These allow parties to reach a settlement without a full trial. While HARERA doesn’t mandate conciliation, it’s a faster route for mutual resolution.
5. Final Order by RERA Authority
After hearing both sides and evaluating the evidence, HARERA delivers a final order, which could include:
- Refund of amount paid with interest
- Compensation for delays
- Specific performance of builder obligations
- Cancellation of allotment with refund
The decision is binding. Builders who fail to comply face stiff penalties.
Timelines for Resolution
While RERA aims to resolve complaints within 60 days, complex disputes or non-cooperation from builders may cause delays. Still, the process is significantly faster than traditional civil courts.
According to a 2023 HARERA report:
- 78% of complaints were resolved within 90 days.
- Average resolution time: 64 days
What If the Builder Doesn’t Follow the Order?
If the builder does not comply with the RERA order:
1. Execution Petition
You can file an execution petition with HARERA to enforce the order. The authority can:
- Freeze bank accounts
- Attach property
- Initiate recovery through district collectors
2. Appeal to Appellate Tribunal
If you are unsatisfied with the HARERA order, you can file an appeal before the RERA Appellate Tribunal within 60 days.
3. Further Appeals
The decision of the Appellate Tribunal can be appealed in the High Court, but only on substantial questions of law.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Filing a RERA Complaint
- Not checking project registration: RERA only covers registered projects. Always verify.
- Incomplete documentation: Missing agreements, receipts, or communication records weaken your case.
- Wrong forum: Don’t file a consumer court case and a RERA complaint simultaneously for the same issue.
- Missing timelines: There’s no rigid time bar, but early filing strengthens your claim.
RERA Complaint Examples
Let’s look at a couple of case studies from Haryana:
- Case 1: Delay in Possession
A Gurgaon property buyer submitted a complaint to RERA due to delayed project completion. The real estate developer kept buyers waiting for possession during a 18-month period. Buyers received complete refunds with a rate of 9.5% interest pursuant to HARERA orders. - Case 2: Unfulfilled Amenities
A buyer based in Faridabad initiated a RERA complaint as the builder failed to deliver on his promise of providing a swimming pool and clubhouse facility. The developer received an order from HARERA which specified three months for completing all obligations or submitting payment penalties.
Benefits of Filing a RERA Complaint
- Speedy redressal compared to civil courts
- Builder accountability
- Transparent hearings
- Consumer-centric rulings
- Online tracking and documentation
Pro Tip: Even if you’re part of a group facing the same issue (like a delay in a tower), you can file a joint complaint to make a stronger case.
The process of filing RERA complaints through the internet provides structured capabilities while remaining efficient and friendly to buyers. The RERA system gives buyers tools to make builders accountable for non-refund incidents and delay in possession and false advertising cases. HARERA maintained a strong history of fast and fair dispute resolution in Haryana region.
Understanding what happens after filing your RERA complaint is just as important as filing it. From scrutiny to hearing to final order and possible appeals, every step is geared toward transparency and justice for the homebuyer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I file a RERA complaint online from outside India?
Yes, NRIs can also file RERA complaints online via the HARERA portal.
Q2: Is legal help mandatory?
No, but it’s recommended for complex disputes.
Q3: What is the fee for filing a complaint in RERA Haryana?
It ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the case type.
Q4: Can I file a RERA complaint against builder for poor construction quality?
Yes. Poor construction quality is a valid ground for filing a RERA complaint against builder. You must provide photo/video evidence, expert reports (if any), and communication records to strengthen your case.
Q5: How long does it take to get a refund after a favorable RERA order?
Typically, builders are given 30 to 60 days to comply with a refund order. If they fail to do so, you can initiate enforcement through an execution petition.
Q6: Can I file a RERA complaint for delay in possession without a registered agreement?
While a registered agreement strengthens your case, you can still file a complaint if you have sufficient alternative evidence like booking receipts, payment records, and communication proof.
