How do I file a RERA complaint in Karnataka against a builder (K-RERA)?
Updated · 26 July 2026
K-RERA (Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority) handles complaints for Karnataka projects. File online at rera.karnataka.gov.in. Filing fee is ₹1,000 for individual allottees (₹2,500 for associations). K-RERA covers all Karnataka districts including Bengaluru, Mysuru, Hubballi, and Mangaluru. Delay interest is at SBI MCLR + 2%. Hearings are scheduled within 3–6 months for straightforward matters.
What complaints can K-RERA adjudicate?
- Delayed possession: Interest at MCLR+2% for the delay period, or refund + interest.
- Construction defects: Within 5 years of possession; builder must rectify within 30 days.
- Undelivered amenities: Club house, pool, parking, power backup promised in approved plan but not provided.
- Unauthorised layout changes: Changed floor plan, reduced unit size, or increased units without RERA amendment and buyer's consent.
- Non-formation of Residents' Association: Builder has not facilitated association formation after majority of units are sold — mandatory under RERA.
- Unregistered project sales: Report builders selling above-threshold projects without K-RERA registration.
Step-by-step: filing on the K-RERA portal
1. Search and confirm project registration at rera.karnataka.gov.in → Projects; note RERA number (format PRM/KA/RERA/...) and registered completion date.
2. Register on the K-RERA portal with email, mobile, Aadhaar/PAN.
3. Fill complaint form: project RERA number, facts, timeline, specific relief sought with calculated interest.
4. Upload: allotment letter, registered sale agreement, all payment receipts, demand letters, defect photographs if applicable.
5. Pay ₹1,000 (individual) or ₹2,500 (group/association) online.
6. Receive complaint number and hearing date (K-RERA target: 60 days). Parties may appear personally or through an advocate.
7. Orders appealable to Karnataka Real Estate Appellate Tribunal within 60 days.
2. Register on the K-RERA portal with email, mobile, Aadhaar/PAN.
3. Fill complaint form: project RERA number, facts, timeline, specific relief sought with calculated interest.
4. Upload: allotment letter, registered sale agreement, all payment receipts, demand letters, defect photographs if applicable.
5. Pay ₹1,000 (individual) or ₹2,500 (group/association) online.
6. Receive complaint number and hearing date (K-RERA target: 60 days). Parties may appear personally or through an advocate.
7. Orders appealable to Karnataka Real Estate Appellate Tribunal within 60 days.
How is delay interest calculated under K-RERA?
K-RERA prescribes SBI MCLR + 2% per annum, compounded monthly. Calculated from the day after the registered possession date to actual possession or refund date.
Example: ₹60 lakh unit; MCLR 8.5% → 10.5% per annum; 18-month delay → interest ₹9.45 lakh.
For refund orders: K-RERA typically grants full amount paid + MCLR+2% interest from each payment date. Orders may direct payment from the project's RERA-designated escrow account, which strengthens enforceability.
Example: ₹60 lakh unit; MCLR 8.5% → 10.5% per annum; 18-month delay → interest ₹9.45 lakh.
For refund orders: K-RERA typically grants full amount paid + MCLR+2% interest from each payment date. Orders may direct payment from the project's RERA-designated escrow account, which strengthens enforceability.
Enforcement of K-RERA orders
If the builder does not comply within the prescribed period:
- Recovery Certificate: K-RERA issues to the District Collector for recovery as land revenue arrears — allows asset attachment and auction without a separate court decree.
- Penalty: up to 10% of estimated project cost under Section 63 of RERA.
- Imprisonment: up to 3 years for continued non-compliance under Section 70 of RERA.
Reference Citation: Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (Sections 14, 18, 31, 40, 63, 70); Karnataka Real Estate Rules, 2017; rera.karnataka.gov.in
Disclaimer: Content provided here is for general legal knowledge only and does not constitute formal legal advice. If you have an urgent or specific matter, please consult a registered advocate.