How do I file a RERA complaint in Maharashtra against a builder (MahaRERA)?
Updated · 26 July 2026
MahaRERA is India's most active RERA authority. Complaints are filed at maharera.maharashtra.gov.in. Filing fee is ₹5,000 (residential) and ₹10,000 (commercial). MahaRERA handles delayed possession, defects, false representations, and refunds. Delay interest is at SBI MCLR + 2%. Orders are typically passed within 60–90 days of the first conciliation hearing.
What complaints can MahaRERA adjudicate?
- Delayed possession: Interest at MCLR+2% from the RERA-registered date, or full refund + interest.
- Construction defects: Within 5 years of possession; builder must rectify within 30 days.
- Misrepresentation: Amenities promised in brochure/approved plan not delivered.
- Non-registration: Builder selling a project above 500 sq m or 8 units without RERA registration.
- Non-execution of registered agreement: Builder collecting booking amounts without executing a registered sale agreement.
Step-by-step: filing on the MahaRERA portal
1. Register at maharera.maharashtra.gov.in → Complaint Registration → sign up with Aadhaar/PAN.
2. Search and confirm the project's RERA registration number and registered completion date.
3. Draft complaint: chronological facts, payments made, possession date promised, relief sought (interest amount / refund / rectification).
4. Upload: allotment letter, registered sale agreement, payment receipts, demand letters, defect photographs if applicable.
5. Pay ₹5,000 online; keep receipt.
6. Receive complaint number; attend conciliation hearing (typically within 30 days).
7. If conciliation fails, matter proceeds to adjudicating officer for a formal order.
2. Search and confirm the project's RERA registration number and registered completion date.
3. Draft complaint: chronological facts, payments made, possession date promised, relief sought (interest amount / refund / rectification).
4. Upload: allotment letter, registered sale agreement, payment receipts, demand letters, defect photographs if applicable.
5. Pay ₹5,000 online; keep receipt.
6. Receive complaint number; attend conciliation hearing (typically within 30 days).
7. If conciliation fails, matter proceeds to adjudicating officer for a formal order.
How is delay interest calculated under MahaRERA?
Delay interest: SBI MCLR + 2% per annum from the day after the RERA-registered possession date to actual possession (or refund date).
Example: ₹75 lakh flat; SBI MCLR 8.5% → interest rate 10.5%; 2-year delay → interest owed ₹15.75 lakh.
For refund: MahaRERA typically grants full amount paid + interest, especially where possession is delayed more than 1 year beyond the RERA date with no credible completion timeline. Force majeure under RERA is interpreted narrowly.
Example: ₹75 lakh flat; SBI MCLR 8.5% → interest rate 10.5%; 2-year delay → interest owed ₹15.75 lakh.
For refund: MahaRERA typically grants full amount paid + interest, especially where possession is delayed more than 1 year beyond the RERA date with no credible completion timeline. Force majeure under RERA is interpreted narrowly.
What happens after a MahaRERA order?
Builder has 60 days to comply. If not:
- Recovery Certificate issued to District Collector — recovery as land revenue arrears, including attachment and auction of builder's assets and RERA-designated receivables.
- Penalty: up to 10% of project cost under Section 63 of RERA.
- Imprisonment: continued non-compliance under Section 70 of RERA.
Reference Citation: Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (Sections 18, 31, 40, 63, 70); Maharashtra Real Estate Rules, 2017; maharera.maharashtra.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.