What Is the Process to File a Complaint Under RERA?

By L. Sadriwala
November 18, 2025

Buying a home is one of the most significant investments of a lifetime. Yet, countless homebuyers across India face issues such as delayed possession, false promises, unapproved layouts, and misleading advertisements. To protect homebuyers and bring transparency to the real estate sector, the Government of India introduced the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA).

RERA has revolutionized the real estate market by introducing strict compliance norms for developers, agents, and promoters. However, despite these measures, disputes do arise — and that’s where filing a RERA complaint becomes essential. Whether you’re a buyer facing possession delays or a developer contesting an unfair claim, understanding how to file a complaint in RERA Maharashtra or any other state can help you seek justice effectively.

This detailed guide will walk you through how to file a complaint in RERA against a builder, the RERA complaint fees, the RERA complaint online Maharashtra process, and more — in a systematic, step-by-step manner.

Table of Contents

What Is a RERA Complaint and Who Can File It?

A RERA complaint is a formal grievance filed under the RERA Act against a promoter, builder, real estate agent, or any stakeholder for violating provisions of the law.
You can file a RERA complaint online Maharashtra, or in your respective state’s RERA portal.

Who Can File a Complaint?

Homebuyers who face delays in possession, misrepresentation, or construction defects.
Allottees or resident associations for maintenance or layout-related grievances.
Builders or developers against unfair practices by agents or buyers.

Essentially, any aggrieved person under the RERA Act can lodge a complaint.

Why Should You File a Complaint Under RERA?

RERA ensures accountability in the real estate sector. Filing a complaint under RERA helps you:

Seek compensation for project delays.
Get possession of your booked property.
Report misleading or fraudulent project claims.
Resolve disputes regarding construction quality or amenities.
Enforce the developer’s promises as mentioned in the registered RERA agreement.

What Are the Common Grounds for Filing a RERA Complaint?

Understanding when to file a complaint helps you save time and effort. Here are the most frequent reasons for MahaRERA complaint against builder or any state’s RERA complaint:

Delay in Possession – When the builder fails to deliver the project on time.
Misleading Advertisements – When project features or timelines differ from marketing claims.
Unauthorized Construction – If the builder constructs without necessary approvals.
Alteration Without Consent – Changing the layout or specifications without buyer consent.
Non-registration of Project – Selling or advertising a project not registered under RERA.
Failure to Provide Promised Amenities – Missing clubhouses, swimming pools, or security systems.

How to File RERA Complaint Online in Maharashtra?

If you’re based in Mumbai or any part of Maharashtra, you’ll use the MahaRERA portal for your complaint. The process for RERA complaint online Maharashtra or RERA complaint online Mumbai is simple but must be followed carefully.

Let’s go step-by-step.

Step 1: Visit the MahaRERA Official Website

Go to https://maharera.mahaonline.gov.in.
On the homepage, look for “MahaRERA Complaint” or “Online Complaint Registration”.
You’ll need to create a MahaRERA Complaint Login using your email ID and password.

This MahaRERA complaint login gives you access to track the status of your complaint later.

Step 2: Click on “New Registration”

Once you’re logged in, click on “New Registration.”
You’ll be redirected to a complaint form where you must fill in:

Your name, address, and contact details.
Project details such as project name, registration number, and builder name.
Specifics of your grievance.
Attachments like agreement copies, payment receipts, and correspondence proof.

Step 3: Draft the Complaint Carefully

Your RERA complaint against builder format should clearly mention:

The background of your purchase.
The issues faced (like delay or misrepresentation).
The sections of RERA violated.
Relief sought (refund, possession, or compensation).

You can upload your complaint in PDF format and attach all supporting documents.

Step 4: Pay the MahaRERA Complaint Fees

You must pay a nominal MahaRERA complaint fees to submit your grievance.

Complaint before Authority (Form A): ₹5,000 (usually paid online via debit card, credit card, or net banking).
Complaint before Adjudicating Officer (Form N): ₹5,000 as well.

This RERA complaint fees is standard and non-refundable.

Step 5: Submit the Complaint

After verifying all details and paying the fee, click “Submit.”
You’ll receive a complaint acknowledgment number that allows you to check the MahaRERA complaint status anytime on the portal.

Step 6: Track Your MahaRERA Complaint Status

Visit the same portal and click “Track Your Complaint.”
Enter your acknowledgment number to see the MahaRERA complaint status — whether it’s under review, scheduled for hearing, or resolved.

What Happens After Filing a Complaint Under RERA?

Once the complaint is lodged, the RERA Authority examines the case. The typical process is as follows:

Preliminary Review: The RERA Authority checks the validity of the complaint.
Notice to the Builder: The builder or promoter receives an official notice to respond.
Hearing: Both parties present their sides before the RERA Authority.
Judgment: RERA issues a written order that may include penalties, refunds, or directions for completion.

If dissatisfied, you can appeal to the RERA Appellate Tribunal within 60 days of the order.

How to File Complaint in RERA Against Builder for Refund or Delay?

If your builder has delayed possession or not honored contractual terms, you can specifically file a RERA complaint against builder under Section 31 of the RERA Act.
You’ll need to attach:

Builder-buyer agreement.
Payment proofs.
Possession date commitment.
Correspondence records.

Clearly mention the relief sought, such as refund, interest on delay, or specific performance.

What Is the RERA Complaint Against Builder Format?

Here’s a simplified version of a RERA complaint against builder format:

Complainant’s Details: Name, contact, and address.
Respondent’s Details: Builder’s name, address, and RERA registration number.
Project Details: Project name, registration number, location.
Facts of the Case: Chronological explanation of issue.
Relief Sought: Refund, compensation, or possession.
Supporting Documents: Agreements, emails, receipts, etc.
Declaration: That all details are true and verified.

What Are the Benefits of Filing a RERA Complaint Online?

Filing a RERA complaint online Maharashtra has several advantages:

Time-efficient: Entire process can be completed digitally.
Transparent: You can check your MahaRERA complaint status anytime.
Affordable: The MahaRERA complaint fees are nominal.
Legally binding outcomes: RERA orders are enforceable under law.

Can You File RERA Complaint Offline?

Yes, complaints can be filed offline at the respective State RERA Office.
However, the RERA complaint online Maharashtra process is faster and preferred, as all hearings and updates are managed digitally.

How Long Does It Take for a RERA Complaint to Be Resolved?

Generally, RERA aims to resolve complaints within 60 days from filing. However, depending on the complexity, hearings, and appeals, it may extend further.

Can You Appeal Against RERA’s Decision?

If you’re not satisfied with the RERA Authority’s order, you can appeal to the RERA Appellate Tribunal, followed by High Court under Section 44.

Conclusion

Filing a RERA complaint online Maharashtra empowers homebuyers to protect their rights and hold developers accountable. Whether you’re in Mumbai or elsewhere, the MahaRERA complaint against builder mechanism ensures transparency, trust, and timely justice in real estate transactions.

Platforms like Housiey further simplify your property-buying journey by connecting you directly with verified builders—without involving multiple brokers or risking data circulation. Their expert guidance ensures every homebuyer stays informed about legal safeguards like RERA.

If you found this guide useful, we strongly recommend reading our detailed blog on “Central RERA Portal” to understand how all RERA systems across India are now integrated for smoother user access and uniform transparency.

FAQs

RERA stands for Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016. It aims to protect homebuyers and regulate the real estate industry.

Yes, you can file a complaint through the official MahaRERA website by registering and filling out the complaint form online.

The complaint fees are ₹5,000, payable online during complaint submission.

Use your registered credentials on the MahaRERA portal and click on “Track Complaint” to view updates.

Visit the official RERA site, register, fill in the complaint details, upload documents, and pay the prescribed fees.

You’ll need the agreement copy, payment receipts, emails, and proof of communication with the builder.

Only allottees, homebuyers, or associations can file complaints under RERA, not tenants.

RERA generally resolves cases within 60 days, though extensions can occur in complex disputes.

Non-compliance may attract penalties, project cancellation, or imprisonment under the Act.

Yes, you can withdraw before the final hearing by submitting a written request to the authority.

No, but legal assistance helps ensure correct documentation and presentation during hearings.

Yes, you can seek refund, interest, or compensation depending on your complaint type.

RERA does not specify a strict limitation, but filing soon after the violation is recommended.

Yes, NRIs can file complaints online through the respective state’s RERA website.

Yes, if each issue is distinct and affects you separately, multiple complaints can be filed.

You can still file a complaint for non-registration as it’s a punishable offence.

Both parties are heard, evidence is examined, and an enforceable order is passed.

Yes, homebuyer associations or groups can file joint complaints against a common builder.

Yes, dissatisfied parties can approach the RERA Appellate Tribunal within 60 days.

It applies to ongoing or new projects that weren’t completed or occupied before the Act’s enforcement.